festival poster

The mission of the Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA) is to enhance the vitality of the city and the quality of life for all Columbia citizens by creating an environment wherein artists and cultural organizations can thrive, and fostering opportunities for creative expression and the preservation and celebration of the city’s multi-cultural heritage.

Commemorative Poster

Visual art has been featured as the city's Commemorative Poster each year since 1992. The poster is intended to communicate the vitality and beauty of mid Missouri and the significance of the arts and serves as a way for the OCA to recognize and highlight the work of an individual artist.

The poster is unveiled each August by Columbia's Mayor at a get-together called the Poster Party. Proceeds from the Poster Party support the OCA's community programs and services. Posters are sold year round at the OCA, 1 S. 7th Street, or at Deck the Walls in the Columbia Mall and at 1305 Grindstone Parkway.

Artists selected for this honor in the past include Melissa Mudd, 2008; Frank Stack, 2007; Steve Wright, 2006; Scott Myers, 2005; Joel Sager, 2004; Mark Langeneckert, 2003; Terry Martin, 2002; Kelly Coalier, 2001; Paul Jackson, 2000; Beth Darling, 1999; Jean Forrester, 1998; Peter Jackson, 1997; Greg Launhardt, 1996; Richard Helmick, 1995; Notley Hawkins, 1994; Brian Mahieu, 1993; and Keith Crown, 1992. All past posters can be viewed in our Poster Gallery.

Artists residing in the state of Missouri may apply; previous winners are not eligible. Work in all media is considered. Existing or newly created work may be submitted. Applications are generally accepted between January and March. Contact the OCA for more information or to be added to the mailing list so that a prospectus is sent to you.