Artist Spotlight: Heather Stamenov: Finding Joy, Authenticity, and Community Through Art

The Arts Council of Park City & Summit County is proud to spotlight Heather Stamenov, a painter, educator, and vital creative force in Summit County. Known for her vibrant use of color, playful authenticity, and deep commitment to supporting emerging artists, Heather embodies what makes our local arts scene so special.

A Lifelong Journey into Art

Swimmers in the Snow by Heather Stamenov

Heather’s artistic journey began at sixteen, encouraged by the two people who first saw her creative spark: her grandmother and her high school art teacher. With their support, she dove into art wholeheartedly, eventually choosing to study art education. What began as a practical choice revealed itself to be a perfect fit for her personality and values.

Throughout her development as an artist, Heather stayed close to people who make art and to the process itself. She describes her style as something that is still evolving, rooted in authenticity, shaped by a love of color, and always carrying a touch of silliness or absurdity. “I love to paint, I love color, I love people,” she says. “And I think my art needs a little playfulness to feel honest.”

The Magic of CREATE PC

Heather is a resident artist at CREATE PC Local Artist Collective, where she cherishes both the physical space and the creative community that surrounds it. “It feels like such a gift to have a place where I can simply be an artist, mess and all,” she shares.

More than just a studio, CREATE PC offers connection. Heather talks about the joy of encouraging neighboring artists, exchanging ideas, and feeling genuinely supported. “It can be hard to be an artist sometimes, wondering whether what you are making is worthwhile. Being around people who give you permission to keep creating really matters.”

A Champion for the Summit County Creative Community

Outside her personal practice, Heather plays a major role in strengthening local arts culture through her work at the Kimball Art Center (KAC). As KAC’s Education Director, she designs meaningful art experiences, collaborates with teaching artists, and supports creativity at every level.

Because of her day-to-day work, she sees herself as a facilitator and supporter. “I am always thinking about how to help the creative community grow and what opportunities I can bring to people here.” She is especially passionate about young artists and those just beginning their creative journeys, helping them build skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging.

Heather also notes how deeply connected she feels through her relationships with the many incredible artists who call Summit County home. “I love that I recognize faces at every event, and that groups like the Arts Council and the Park City Artist Association (PCAA) actively bring local artists together.”

For Heather, the role of strong arts and culture in a community cannot be overstated. “High caliber art is transformative. It changes us, affects us, brings us together, and brings life and energy into a community full stop.”

Swimmers in the Snow by Heather Stamenov

What She Is Creating Now

Right now, Heather is diving into a series of large-scale pieces. Many begin as digital sketches or collages that combine moments from Park City’s outdoor environment with figures and gestures that carry emotional weight.

One of her signature themes, “Swimmers in the Snow,” blends memories from her teenage swim team days with the cold, quiet beauty of winter landscapes. “Swimming was meditative for me,” she explains. “There is something about the cap, the goggles, the gestures. Pairing these with snow tells a story about life, the joy, but also the toughness.” These recurring symbols reflect resilience, playfulness, and the unique culture of an outdoor-driven community.

She is also continuing to experiment with color, mark making, and expressing more with less, keeping her work fresh, fun, and deeply personal.

A Creative Leader, Artist, and Advocate

Unsurprisingly, Heather’s favorite creative space is the Kimball Art Center, where she has worked for nearly a decade. Through exhibitions, classes, and school programming, the KAC remains a continuous source of inspiration. “The artists we exhibit from around the country and the world keep me inspired,” she says.

In her role as an artist and the Education Director at the Kimball Art Center, Heather brings creativity, compassion, and dedication to everything she touches. Whether she is painting, teaching, or collaborating, she continually strengthens the fabric of Park City’s artistic community.

We are grateful to highlight her work and voice, and we are excited to see what she creates next.