Summers began photography at a young age and has always had a camera close by. She shares her passion for photography with both her brother and father, whom are avid photographers. She spent most of her childhood outside of Chicago in Lake Forest, Illinois. Drawn to the mountain, she attended college in Colorado at The University of Denver. Summers was captivated by the mountains and moved a few hours west to teach skiing, where she currently lives. Summers soon found love, married, and started a family. She and her husband built a home on large ranch surrounded by mountain ranges. She raised her two daughters and still lives and works from her home studio. When Summers’s daughters were born she found a knack for capturing their expressions of innocence, wonder and joy.
Unfortunately, while her children were young, Summers lost her husband. She found solace in the many facets of art after his death. Since then, it has become an integral part of her life. Summers has studied with Emily Soto, Frank Ockenfels, and Keith Carter.
When Summers isn’t taking photos or painting, she is dedicating her time to the local arts community. From guest curating photography shows in Aspen, to mentoring young artists on a donated school bus equipped as an art classroom. Summers holds multiple chairs on art council boards, including the Artbase council and the 5point film Festival.
Summers is especially proud of the volunteer work she does each year to produce a magazine for Bridging Bionics. The organization aims to improve the mobility of individuals with neurological impairments through technological advancements.
Finding her voice has been a beautiful transition for Summers. Being able to be a positive role model and create art is a gift in which Summers honors.
You can find Summers most days working in her studio on a photography project or a series of paintings. Summers still finds joy and rejuvenation from the mountains and is an active mountain biker, hiker and skier. She continues her art education by attending workshops and traveling. She loves animals and will forever have dogs by her side.
