Aspen Decker Unveils Camas Mural at History Center
The new mural at the Montana Natural History Center highlights Salish cultural history through ledger-style art.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Cultural
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The Missoula Downtown Foundation recently completed a new mural titled Sx̣ʷeʔlí x̣èct u Qʷl̓epm, or Camas Dig & Bake, at the Montana Natural History Center. Artist Aspen Decker unveiled the ledger-style work during an event held on October 2, 2026.
Why it matters
This project aims to increase the visibility of Salish stories within public spaces in Missoula. It serves as a reminder that Salish culture remains an active and vibrant part of the community.
The mural is located at 120 Hickory St. and represents the second major public art project funded by the Missoula Downtown Foundation during the 2026 calendar year.
The players
Aspen Decker
She is a member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and a creator of ledger-style public art.
Missoula Downtown Foundation
This organization supports local development and civic improvements through initiatives like public art installations.
Montana Natural History Center
This local facility provides educational programming focused on the natural sciences and regional history.
The details
Artist Aspen Decker, a member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, created the piece to bridge place-based history with cultural storytelling about the camas plant harvest. The installation was made possible through funding from the foundation alongside support from the Llewellyn Foundation and several private donors.
Timeline
The mural unveiling and artist talk occurred on October 2, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This mural follows the mission of the Montana Natural History Center's educational outreach programs by integrating cultural history into their physical space. The project represents a growing trend of municipal foundations partnering with cultural centers to amplify indigenous storytelling.
Residents and visitors can view the new mural by visiting the Montana Natural History Center on Hickory St. The piece is accessible to the public as part of the center's outdoor and site-wide display collection.
The takeaway
Public art projects like this offer a tangible way for the community to engage with regional history outside of traditional museum exhibits. Residents can support these initiatives by attending unveiling events and learning about the specific cultural significance of featured historical narratives.
What happens next
A second mural project titled Joy Blooms is scheduled to be celebrated at 235 N. 1st St. later in October 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local art installations in our Cultural section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Independent Record.
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