Rooted in Nature, Inspired by Community: Eric Warner at CREATE Pride

This June, the Arts Council of Park City & Summit County is proud to celebrate Pride Month through CREATE Pride: Art & Community, a curated exhibition and pop-up art market showcasing the creativity, diversity, and talent of local LGBTQIA+ artists and allies.

Monument Valley by Eric Warner

Taking place on Friday, June 26, from 5 to 9 p.m. at CREATE PC Local Artist Collective, CREATE Pride brings together artists, community members, and supporters for an evening of art, connection, and celebration. The event highlights the vibrant contributions of Utah's LGBTQIA+ creative community while creating a welcoming space for artistic expression and meaningful dialogue.

Among the featured artists participating in this year's event is local artist and designer Eric Warner, whose work is deeply influenced by the natural world and the stories found within reclaimed and vintage materials.

A Utah native, Warner grew up in Provo Canyon, surrounded by mountains, forests, and open landscapes that continue to influence his artistic practice today. "Nature is always my first source of inspiration," Warner explains. "From landscapes to animals to the use of natural materials, it continually informs my work."

After studying interior design at Parsons School of Design in New York City, Warner built an impressive creative career working with globally recognized brands, including Ralph Lauren, Hermès, Bulgari, Anthropologie, Tiffany & Co., Wedgwood, and Sundance. Eventually, he returned to Utah to reconnect with family and the mountain landscapes he calls home. Today, those landscapes remain at the heart of his artistic vision.

Evil Eye No.2 by Eric Warner

Visitors to CREATE Pride will have the opportunity to experience several facets of Warner's evolving body of work. His newest series of animal paintings captures the beauty and personality of wildlife through bold color and expressive composition. He will also showcase pieces created using reclaimed wood, one of his signature techniques that combines weathered wood elements with blocks of clear acrylic to create dimensional works that bridge natural and contemporary materials.

Warner has been involved with CREATE PC since moving to Park City in 2020 and values the organization's commitment to supporting local artists. "I am happy to lend my time and talent to a local organization dedicated to supporting the vibrant creative and artistic community here in the Wasatch Back," he says.

His involvement extends beyond the arts community through his work with Equality Utah. "The Arts Council is a cornerstone of the creative community here in Park City," Warner shares. "They have supported local Pride initiatives for years and have been very supportive of my work with Equality Utah, attending events as part of my group and encouraging others to attend."

CREATE Pride reflects that ongoing commitment to fostering inclusion, visibility, and belonging through the arts. Whether you are an art collector, community supporter, or simply looking for an inspiring way to celebrate Pride Month, CREATE Pride offers an opportunity to connect with local artists and experience the creativity that makes Summit County such a vibrant place to live.

Join us on Friday, June 26, from 5 to 9 p.m. at the CREATE PC Local Artist Collective for an evening of art, community, and celebration.