Local artist Karen Millar Kendall to showcase abstract landscapes at Park City Library

Local artist Karen Millar Kendall. Photo: Karen Millar Kendall

PARK CITY, Utah — Karen Millar Kendall, a local abstract landscape artist, will present her solo exhibition, “The Essence of Things,” at the Park City Library from Dec. 3 through Feb. 29. The exhibit will include an opening reception on Dec. 5, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Kendall, a self-taught artist, began pursuing art full-time six years ago after retiring from a 30-year career as a special education high school teacher. Originally from Michigan, Kendall has spent the last 22 years in Utah and now calls Park City home. Her journey into the arts reflects a lifelong passion.

“I’ve always been artsy,” Kendall said. “It runs in the family, I think. Even when I was teaching, I painted and drew when I could, but I never had the time to truly immerse myself in it.”

When Kendall and her husband moved to Park City three years ago, she initially set up a home studio. However, the need for connection and collaboration with other creatives led her to join the shared studio space at Create PC, an initiative supported by the Arts Council of Park City and Summit County.

“I love having a community of artists to bounce ideas off of,” Kendall said. “It’s inspiring to be in a space where creativity is all around you. It’s a completely different energy than working alone at home.”

Kendall’s work, described as abstracted landscapes, combines layers of acrylic paint, scraping, dripping, and mixed media elements such as handmade papers. Her pieces aim to evoke a connection with viewers.

“My goal isn’t realism,” Kendall said. “It’s about capturing the essence of a place or feeling, creating a piece that people can interpret and connect with in their own way. I want them to step closer and really engage with the layers, textures, and colors.”

“The Essence of Things” reflects Kendall’s evolution as an artist, with some works from her new collection featured in the exhibition.

For Kendall, opportunities to share her work are as important as the act of creating itself.

“It’s deeply personal when I create, but I also want to share that beauty and connection with others,” she said. “Spaces like the Park City Library are vital for local artists like me who may not fit into traditional gallery settings. Watching someone step closer to my work, trying to figure out a texture or detail—that’s the best compliment.”

Kendall expressed gratitude for the role of the Arts Council and Park City Library in supporting local artists.

“The Arts Council has been a constant advocate, finding ways to give us representation and opportunities,” she said. “It’s not easy to break into galleries, so having spaces like Create PC and events like this library show make all the difference.”

The exhibit is free and open to the public during library hours. For more information about Kendall’s work, visit her website.