In the heart of Afton, Wyoming, Colter’s Lodge stands as a testament to local history and culture, adorned with a mural that has captured the essence of the region for nearly four decades. The original artist, Ray Shaw, is not just a name on the wall; he embodies the spirit of this artwork, having painted it three times over the years—each rendition marking a significant chapter in his life and in the history of the lodge.

Ray Shaw’s connection to Star Valley runs deep. Born just a few blocks from the lodge, he began painting at a young age, inspired by the landscapes and stories of the area. At just 28, he painted the original mural, a vibrant depiction of John Colter, a legendary figure in the American West. It was a project commissioned for the newly built bar, a pivotal moment in Shaw’s career and a significant addition to the lodge’s ambiance.

“I was asked to paint something for the bar, and they showed me some images,” Shaw recalls. “I thought, why not? It’s a chance to contribute to my hometown.” That first mural measured 13 by 12 feet, hanging on chains in a prominent spot before being mounted on the building’s exterior.

Every 20 years, Shaw has returned to restore the mural, with the second painting occurring two decades ago. “The first time I came back, it was still visible, just a little faded,” he explains. “This time, it was almost completely gone.” The harsh Wyoming weather had taken its toll, eroding the image he had created. Despite this challenge, Shaw approached the task with enthusiasm.

“Knowing I had to repaint it was bittersweet,” he admits. “It’s sad to see your work fade away, but it’s also an opportunity to breathe new life into it.” This latest rendition, painted during a beautiful Labor Day weekend, is particularly poignant for Shaw—it marks his final time repainting the mural.

Using acrylic paints, Shaw meticulously recreated the mural, guided by memories of the original and a printed image sourced from the Internet. “The paints have etched themselves into the wood over the years,” he notes. “You can almost see the shadows of the original lines.” This unique phenomenon provided him a roadmap to follow, even as he faced the pressure of completing the mural in just two days.

“I had to find where all the lines were again,” Shaw says. “It’s like piecing together a puzzle.” Each stroke of his brush is imbued with nostalgia, reflecting not only his artistic evolution but also the deep-rooted connection he has with the community.

Shaw’s artistry extends well beyond the mural. He has dedicated most of his life to being a wildlife artist, traveling the world and capturing the beauty of the wild, particularly birds. These experiences have shaped his perspective and enriched his art, allowing him to infuse a unique depth into his work.

His return to Star Valley for this final mural serves as a full-circle moment. The mural is not just a piece of art; it’s a symbol of his journey, connecting generations of locals who have shared in its story. “After Rulon Gardner won the Olympic wrestling event, there was a hometown parade in Afton. My mural was behind him when the parade was shown on TV.”

As Shaw completes his final brushstrokes, discussions about the future of the Colter Lodge are underway. The building is currently up for sale, a development that leaves many wondering what will become of the mural. “I hope it remains a part of this place,” Shaw says. “It’s been here for so long, and it means a lot to the community.”

Ray Shaw’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Star Valley, and the Colter Lodge mural stands as a testament to his artistry and the connections he has fostered through his work. As he prepares to step back, he leaves behind not just a mural, but a piece of history that will continue to inspire and resonate with those who encounter it for years to come.