Local Denver artist Mike Wilson did something extraordinary. He painted watercolors of 53 of the highest peaks in Colorado, known as “14ers” for their height of over 14,000 feet above sea level – and donated the entire collection to Cottonwood Institute. Our online 14ers Artwork Store is now open so that outdoor enthusiasts in Colorado and across the world can enjoy Wilson’s incredible works of art and help get kids outdoors.

The watercolors are painted from unique perspectives inaccessible to usual hikers, as the artist used Google Earth images as references. According to Mike, “The watercolors are 18″ by 24″ and provide a look at each mountain’s most attractive side. Each mountain gets its best lighting, best background, and even its most striking snow cover. These are portraits.”

The net proceeds from the online store will be used to support Cottonwood programs and students, like this CAP student from AXL Academy: “I feel more inspired to try new things and I have learned so many new things. I tell my parents one new thing almost every night. I love CAP class because it has done so much for me. Before, I just stood aside and watched everybody else.” We are so grateful to Mike for sharing the magic of the 14ers with you all, and for providing additional opportunities for our middle and high school students to get outside.

From now until December 31, 2021, we are offering 20% off when you buy 2 or more prints with code: MULTI20CI. The entire collection is coming soon, so keep coming back and be on the lookout for more peaks! Visit the online store here.

There are many ways to enjoy the Colorado mountains and 14,000 foot peaks. Not everyone has to summit a 14er or bag a peak. Some folks enjoy these mountains from a distance, while others like me love to paint them. Enjoy these peaks in whatever way feels comfortable, but please protect them!

– Artist Mike Wilson