Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week started a new initiative to engage local artists in a creative design contest that celebrates the craft beverage industry in Kalamazoo. Ten artists from around the state submitted designs in November that were then included in a weeklong community vote online through December 7th.

The winning artist with 111 votes was visual artist Heather Picardat from Kentwood, MI. Her playful bear with a beer design will be printed on commemorative stickers that will be available at participating locations during Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week from January 12 – 21. As the winning artist, Picardat will also receive a cash prize, copies of her sticker design, and artist information featured on the event website and social media channels.

Heather Picardat specializes in creating dynamic and surprising artwork. Her love of contrast and variety of mediums allows her to create works that are full of wonder and unexpected juxtapositions. Whether it is birds covered in stars or two bears locked in a warm embrace, her artwork makes the mundane magical. Her passion for storytelling makes her work lively and playful. With her bold sense of color and whimsy, Heather Picardat is able to create pictures that look like a revelation of facts about the unseen world of bears and birds.

Events and specials for Kalamazoo Craft Beverage Week will be listed on the website towards the end of December. To stay up to date with the event, visit KalamazooCraftBeverageWeek.com and follow #KCBW2024.