A new public art piece was installed in the Vista on Senate St in May, honoring one of Columbia’s greatest contributors to the art community, Anastasia Chernoff. Chernoff passed away in 2016 and will never be forgotten through this sculpture titled, “Her Heart.” Anastasia was responsible for bringing many local artists to light in the city and showcased many at her Anastasia & Friends Art Gallery on Main Street.

This piece was created by Clayton Wooten through a partnership of One Columbia and The Vista Guild.

“’Her Heart’ being the title of the piece – we would like to share that feeling with everyone,” said Paul Kaughmann, a local actor and close friend of Anastasia’s who helped bring this project on the 900 block of Senate Street in the Vista to life.

“That feeling of openness, of love. She had a great deal of love for this city and I think at this time especially, it’s a good time to be reminded that love is the most powerful thing we can offer to each other,” Kaughmann says.