Simone Saunders creates narratives through cultural mythology, history and personal landscapes. For the artist, the connection to a global diaspora of a Black community is an important objective, achieved and supported through creating works from a craft that is rigorous and tactile. The outcome is a body of work of large scale textiles that illuminate a creative content rooted in a powerful history.
For more information, please see: https://www.simoneelizabeth.ca and on Instagram @simoneelizabethtextiles.
Simone Saunders in her studio, 2020. Image courtesy of the artist.
It would be great if you could briefly talk us through your practice. Understanding it is integral to appreciating the multivalence of your work.
I work with a tufting gun and punch needle creating large, colourful textiles. I highlight my rich Jamaican heritage in relation to being connected to a global diaspora of Black history. I’m always tapping into what it is to be a Black woman. I feel a kinship with womanhood and celebrating Black women within our culture. I focus on the power and beauty that is within us, capturing our image with vibrancy of colour. I use my art to continue to bring Black culture to the forefront and to my community in Alberta, Canada.
Simone Saunders, She Holds the Key, 2020. 62” x 60”. Hand-tufted. Velvet and acrylic yarn on monk’s cloth. Image courtesy of the artist.
Has any of your imagery shifted in a reflection to what's currently happening? And why, or why not?
I am a Black woman and I continue to highlight Black culture whilst I live in Canada. I have the freedom to use my voice. My work has always encompassed the notion of the Black Lives Matter movement, so the shift is my drive: to push harder, to continue creating. Things are changing, organizations / institutions must be held accountable for their inequities. There is a strong Black community here in Calgary - who are vying for change and coming together stronger each day. I amplify my voice through my art.
Simone Saunders, Justice for Ahmaud, 2020. 24” x 34”. Hand-tufted. Velvet and acrylic yarn on monk’s cloth. Image courtesy of the artist.
Simone Saunders, Justice for Ahmaud (detail), 2020. 24” x 34”. Hand-tufted. Velvet and acrylic yarn on monk’s cloth. Image courtesy of the artist.
Are you thinking differently? Coping differently? Inspired differently?
Coping strategies have been different as of late, dealing with the emotions that are surging from the protests and amongst the Black community. My textiles are rooted in a strong sense of political activism. I want to encourage the continued emancipation of Black people. I create portraits of Black people who are leaders within their respective disciplines. Whether that be the arts, music, sports, community or government advocates; it’s important to carry forward their message, have their legacy move through different avenues, like my textiles.
In progress. 2020. Image courtesy of the artist.
Most importantly, how are you doing? How are you navigating the highs and lows?
The beauty of life and the power of love is where I find joy. There is so much to be grateful for and I look toward a positive change in our future. Right now, there is a lot of pain and injustices which we must continue to educate ourselves on. I create art representing Black people I look up to: champions, leaders, advocates. It’s important to look up and to look ahead, only then can we really evoke change. And talk about highs and lows right now, it’s all about balance: knowing when to charge ahead, when to slow down, when to stop and when to start again.
Simone Saunders, She Emerges, 2020. 60”x 63”. Hand-tufted. Velvet and acrylic yarn on monk’s cloth. Image courtesy of the artist.
It's my experience that most artists engage with some level of self-isolation in their day to day art practice. Has this been your experience? And if so, have you found these innate rhythms to be helpful during this larger, world-wide experience of isolation?
I have embraced the self-isolation. To arise each day and dance to my own rhythm, to commit to my craft without interruption has been a blessing. I do combat emotions with being disconnected from family and friends, but technology helps us to stay connected.
Simone Saunders, Little One, 2020. 24” x 20”. Hand-tufted. Velvet and acrylic yarn on monk’s cloth. Image courtesy of the artist.
What is bringing you solace, or even joy, in this moment?
It’s important to look within my sphere to stay connected to my solace. To walk my dogs, to hold my partner, to call my mom, to nourish myself and tend carefully to my own needs. There is nothing to fight for if I don’t have my mental and physical health.
In progress. 2020. Image courtesy of the artist.
What research or writing are you doing that you find compelling?
Black history. Current ideologies and staying connected to pop-culture. I read a lot of literature by Black women: Roxane Gay, Morgan Jenkins, Audre Lorde, Angela Davis, Octavia Butler, Maya Angelou, the list goes on.
Simone Saunders, It Matters, 2020, 23” x 32”. Hand-tufted. Velvet and acrylic yarn on monk’s cloth. Image courtesy of the artist.
Are you reading anything?
I am reading a compelling fiction, Ruby by Cynthia Bond
Simone Saunders, Duppy Dupplicity, 2019. 60” x 60”. Hand-tufted. Velvet and acrylic yarn on monk’s cloth. Image courtesy of the artist.