Iron Horse Arts District Announces 2nd Annual Photo Contest & Call for Crosswalk Mural Artists

April 7, 2025
Press Release

Date: April 7, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Cassie Ehrenberg, Executive Director at Iron Horse Arts District, at (949) 295-7018, or director@ironhorsedistrict.org


Iron Horse Arts District Announces 2nd Annual Photo Contest & Call for Crosswalk Mural Artists


HOLDREGE, Neb. – The Iron Horse Arts District announces two exciting opportunities for artists and creatives in the community: the 2nd Annual Photo Contest and a Call for Artists to design new crosswalk murals in downtown Holdrege.
2nd Annual Photo Contest: Creatures of Phelps County


Following the success of last year’s contest, the Iron Horse Arts District invites photographers of all skill levels to participate in the 2025 Photo Contest, themed “Creatures of Phelps County.” This year's theme celebrates the diverse wildlife, livestock, and pets that make our region unique.
Participants are encouraged to submit their best photographs (up to three) capturing the animals of Phelps County. Winning images will be displayed in a public exhibition and may be featured in Iron Horse Arts District promotional materials.


Submission Deadline: April 27, 2025, at 11:59pm
More Information & How to Enter: https://ironhorsedistrict.org/projects/2025-photo-contest 


Request for Proposals: Crosswalk Mural Project
The Iron Horse Arts District is also seeking artists to design crosswalk murals as part of its ongoing mission to enhance public spaces with creative placemaking. Selected designs will be installed at key intersections in downtown Holdrege, bringing vibrant, eye-catching artwork to the city’s historic streetscape.


This year’s theme, “Feathered Crossings,” encourages designs inspired by birds, flight, and movement. Artists from Holdrege, Phelps County, and surrounding areas in Central Nebraska are encouraged to apply.


Artist Selection Process:
Up to three artists will be chosen to submit final designs, each receiving a $200 stipend.
The final murals will be selected by the Crosswalk Mural Committee and approved by the Holdrege City Council.
Community members will be invited to help paint the selected designs, making this a true community-driven project!
Submission Deadline: April 28, 2025, at 11:59pm Central Time
Application & More Information: https://ironhorsedistrict.org/projects/crosswalk-murals 


Get Involved & Support the Arts
Both initiatives reflect the Iron Horse Arts District’s ongoing efforts to bring public art and community engagement to Holdrege. Whether you’re a photographer, an artist, or a community member looking to get involved, these opportunities are a great way to showcase creativity and contribute to the vibrancy of our town.


The Iron Horse Arts District would like to thank the Phelps Memorial Foundation for sponsoring these projects and for their continued support of our mission to enhance Holdrege through the arts.
For more information about these projects or to support the Iron Horse Arts District, visit ironhorseartsdistrict.org or follow us on social media.