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Artists at Altitude

2026 Artists in Residence

Every year, we welcome artists of various mediums to a residency at Estes Park Center. Our Artists in Residence find inspiration in the mountains and put on exciting interactive workshops and events for our guests. Read on to learn more about our diverse range of 2026 Artists.

Event Calendar for 2026 Artists in Residence

Meet the Artists

Illustration of a bird and berries

Emily Hester

May 21 – June 10

Colored Pencil & Mixed Media
Emily Hester is a wildlife artist specializing in detailed, semi-realistic illustrations created through layered colored pencil and mixed media techniques. Her work reflects a deep love for animals and a commitment to encouraging awareness around wildlife and conservation. During her residency, Emily will guide guests in exploring wildlife through art, offering an approachable way to connect creativity with curiosity about the environment.

Stage show with large animal puppets

Nicole Adkins

June 11 – July 1

Theatre & Playmaking
Nicole Adkins creates playful, nature-inspired theatre experiences that invite audiences of all ages to slow down, connect, and imagine together. Blending storytelling, sound, visual design, and gentle participation, her work often takes place outdoors or in nontraditional spaces. Whether participating or simply observing, guests are welcomed into an experience that is thoughtful, imaginative, and deeply connected to place.

Illustration of a colorful camping scene with a tent

Sharisse Steber

July 2 – July 22

Illustrator
Sharisse Steber is an illustrator who uses art as a tool to help people feel more confident exploring the outdoors. Her work combines creativity with practical knowledge—translating topics like hiking safety, outdoor preparedness, and nature awareness into approachable and engaging visuals. During her residency, she will share how art can be both expressive and informative, offering guests a creative way to connect with nature while learning skills that support safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences.

Photograph of a tree at night time using 'painting with light' technique

Matt Stock

July 23 – August 12

Photographer
Matt Stock is a photographer known for his striking nighttime landscapes created through his “Painting with Light in the Dark” process. Using long exposures and carefully controlled lighting, he reveals landscapes in a way that blends artistic vision with technical precision. During his residency, Matt will share both the creative and technical aspects of his process, inviting guests to see the landscape—and light itself—from a new perspective.

Anna standing in front of one of her quilts

Anna Kammeyer

August 20 – September 9

Quilter
Anna Kammeyer is a Colorado-based quilter whose work blends personal storytelling, tradition, and design into pieces that reflect both memory and place. Having visited YMCA of the Rockies for years with her family, she brings a meaningful perspective rooted in rest, reflection, and togetherness. During her residency, Anna invites guests to explore quilting as both an art form and a form of storytelling—whether through sharing their own memories, learning about quilt traditions, or discovering how creativity and utility can come together in a single piece.

Grace Stean performing

Grace Stean

September 10 – September 30

Musician
Grace Stean is a musician and arts leader based in Colorado, known for creating joyful, welcoming musical experiences that bring people together. Of Okinawan Japanese/American descent, she plays ukulele, violin, and the sanshin—a traditional Okinawan instrument with deep cultural roots. Her workshops are designed to be fun, accessible, and community-centered—inviting guests of all experience levels to participate, connect, and leave with a smile.

Painting of a chickadee

Jin-Rong Zhang

October 1 – October 21

Multimedia Artist
Jin-Rong Zhang is a multimedia artist working in painting and printmaking through a semi-abstract lens. Her work is influenced by her global experiences and a deep connection to nature, often exploring themes of movement, transformation, and place. During her residency, she encourages guests to explore abstraction as a way of seeing—opening up space for creativity, curiosity, and personal expression.