The 5 Best Artists Around Summit County

Only about 10 percent of local arts contests shine the spotlight on individual creators—but the Artist category in the Best of Summit does exactly that. It celebrates those whose work brings a defining voice and visual character to our region. Across Summit County, artists translate mountain light, wildlife, and daily life into something seen, felt, remembered.

Katie Girtman – Studio Kiva Photography

Katie Girtman balances technical precision with a sense of adventure. She’s been behind a camera for three decades, with early experience shooting for The North Face and working in photojournalism. She treats each project — whether aerial, commercial, portrait or event work — as a chance to frame something unexpected. Her team approaches visual storytelling like a partnership; they bring tools like Matterport, drone footage and video editing to help clients’ visions surface in extraordinary ways. Community shows up too — Studio Kiva frequently donates photography services to nonprofits and youth programs.

Erica Nicol – Colorado Native Studios

Erica Nicol proves versatility is an art form. Her studio features her original work across media — from painting and sculpture to leather engraving, pottery and glassware. She applies her bold designs to useful objects too — think cutting boards, trivets, hand-painted glasses and even necklaces. You’ll also find her handiwork in seasonal carvings around the county — she’s part of Breckenridge’s snow-sculpture team. Her work brings scenic color and functional beauty into everyday life.

Scott Bullock – Arts Alive Gallery

Scott Bullock’s style is instantly recognizable and delightfully playful. He began in graphic design and expanded into illustration, caricature, painting and bronze sculpture. His whimsical wildlife art captures that sense of surprise — mountain goats climbing, bears snowboarding — all rendered with precision and cheekiness. He crafts pieces meant to lift the mood, to coax a grin, to make you linger. His work infuses galleries with lighthearted charm.

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