In an exciting development for the arts community in Heber City, fine art photographer Andrea Bear is set to celebrate the grand opening of her new studio, Safn Haus Gallery & Event Space. The open house will take place on Saturday, January 17, from noon to 6 p.m. at 32 W. 200 South, Suite 4. This event not only marks a significant milestone in Bear's artistic journey but also aims to foster community engagement and collaboration among local creatives. Safn Haus, pronounced SAF-en House, is designed as a tribute to the Nordic and Swiss influences that permeate the Heber Valley. Bear describes the space as a "place where creativity and community come together," inviting locals to explore her gallery, mingle with fellow attendees, and enjoy light refreshments. With nearly 2,000 square feet of space, Safn Haus serves as both an exhibition area for Bear’s photographs and a venue available for public rental. “I love collaborating and bringing people together,” Bear said, emphasizing her commitment to community engagement. The studio will not only serve as a gallery but also as a versatile event space suitable for various gatherings, such as receptions for the Park City Opera or the National Ability Center. Bear is also eager to provide art and craft classes, with registration now open at her website, safnhaus.com/classes. Bear’s vision extends beyond her personal artistic ambitions. She plans to support local artisans by subletting two rooms in Safn Haus, one of which is already rented by a custom cowboy hat maker. “I’d love to sponsor some local high school artists and others to give them opportunities,” Bear stated, highlighting her desire to give back to the community that has inspired her work. Additionally, a percentage of fees from rentals and art sales will be donated to organizations that support the arts, land preservation, and animal welfare in the region. Bear’s journey into the world of fine art photography began at the tender age of eight, thanks to a gift from her father—a vintage 35mm film camera. "He said, ‘I think you’re going to do really well with a camera, so go see what you can do,’” she reminisced. Shortly after receiving the camera, Bear captured her first notable photograph—a sunset image that would go on to be used on a camp's brochures. This early success ignited a lifelong passion for photography that has taken her around the globe. Throughout her life, Bear has consistently expressed her artistic tendencies. "I see everything in photographs," she remarked, explaining how she perceives the world through the lens of her camera. Her mother, a skilled medical illustrator, inspired her artistic aspirations. Although Bear initially felt overshadowed by her mother’s talent, she eventually found her unique voice in photography, merging it with artistic expression. As a mother of three—Benji, Lauren, and Emily—Bear balanced her family life with her passion for photography. Her children have pursued remarkable careers in their own right, contributing to a family dynamic rich in creativity. Benji works at Google, Lauren has a successful consulting career, and Emily, a Grammy and Emmy Award-winning musical prodigy, began composing at a remarkably young age. The family relocated to the Wasatch Back during the COVID-19 pandemic, a move spurred by Benji's newfound flexibility to work remotely. Bear described how a visit to the area changed everything for them. "We took a hike in Midway and fell in love with the area," she recalled. After a whirlwind decision, they chose to settle in Heber City, where Bear has since discovered her creative voice in ways she never anticipated. Despite her artistic achievements, Bear has battled imposter syndrome. Encouragement from friends has been pivotal in her journey, prompting her to establish a photography website and share her work with a broader audience. "I started putting photos up, and just through word-of-mouth, things started spinning," she said, reflecting on the organic growth of her business. Bear's decision to move from her living room to a dedicated studio came as her photography sales increased. She sought a space that resonated with her aesthetic vision and eventually found the perfect fit in Safn Haus. “It’s a beautiful, sunlit space that is also beautifully lit up at night,” she described, emphasizing the inviting atmosphere she aims to create. In addition to photography, Bear also offers voice coaching, drawing on her background in musical theatre and performance. She envisions Safn Haus as a multi-functional space where she can host voice lessons, master classes, and other community events, further solidifying her commitment to local engagement. As the open house approaches, Bear invites everyone to experience what Safn Haus has to offer. “Come explore, mingle, and enjoy some food,” she said, warmly welcoming the community to join in this new chapter. **Safn Haus Open House Details** **When:** Noon-6 p.m., Saturday, January 17 **Where:** 32 W. 200 South, Suite 4, Heber City **Cost:** Free **Website:** safnhaus.com Bear's initiative not only enhances the local arts scene but also underscores the importance of community collaboration in fostering creativity and support within Heber City. As she embarks on this exciting venture, the future of Safn Haus promises to be a vibrant hub for artistic expression and community connection.