A Stunning New Salish Mural Rises in Missoula

Missoula has a new landmark, and it's 40 feet wide.

On Friday, the Montana Natural History Center unveiled a brand-new mural — Camas Dig and Bake — designed and painted by Salish artists Aspen Decker and Cameron Decker. The 40-by-20-foot work in the Center's garden depicts the traditional gathering of Bitterroot Salish people to dig and bake camas, a plant long used as a staple food.

The unveiling was a celebration in its own right: a prayer and performance by the Salish drum group, snacks, and an artist talk honoring Salish heritage. Free, public, and open to everyone.

Public art that teaches you something about the ground you're standing on — that's the best kind. The mural will be there in the garden on Hickory Street whenever you want to see it.

Go look up. It's worth the trip.

Art like this doesn't just decorate a garden — it roots a community in its own story. Missoula is lucky to have it.