Interview with Simone E. Saunders

How did you get into textile art? How has your practice changed over time?

I was in the theatre, acting and producing on Canadian stages. I then became interested in set design which ignited my love for injecting storytelling into pattern and color. I then went back to university for my second art degree in textile art. I initially wanted to do pattern making to design wallpaper and fabrics, but while exploring weaving I came upon the tufting gun. This powerful machine is designed for making rugs, but I immediately fell for its ability to combine weaving and drawing! My art practice has always evolved, fueled by my search for history and identity. I am a mixed-race Black woman and creating portraiture that uplifts narratives of Black womanhood is the foundation of my practice.

Simone Elizabeth Saunders, Rise Up: Encompass the Galaxy!, Fibre- Tufting and Punch Needle

You make art that emphasizes Black empowerment. What impact does art on this subject have?

I believe that the time is now for Black voices to be amplified and heard. My contribution to this is through my art. Artists have the ability to capture not only moments within our histories but to create capsules of the past, present, and future into one. We live in a time where communication is immediate through social platforms and the impact that artists can have is immeasurable. I speak my truth and engaging with it through my textiles is a powerful union for me. I am grateful for them to be seen. 

How do you seek out opportunities? How have you developed your career?

First and foremost the development of my career has been internal, nurturing my vulnerability. It takes courage to put myself out there. There is a submission to imperfection. We are human and we are fallible. Leading with vulnerability when making connections with people or applying for different opportunities is key for me. Putting ourselves out there is what we do out here in the world, isn’t it? 

So, being honest and humble and asking for what I need is a constant practice. Regardless of the opportunities—emailing a gallery, having a studio visit with a curator, connecting with someone over social media platforms, or applying for a grant—it’s all about being myself, showing up and being honest. As an artist, no one is going to know my art if I don’t put myself out there! It takes a balance of humility and courage.

Simone Saunders, Lady Justice, 2021, Fibre- Tufting and Punch Needle

What types of art and culture do you like to consume? 

I listen to audiobooks while I tuft. I soak in the words from brilliant Black women writers such as Octavia Butler, Toni Morrison, Angela Davis, Roxanne Gay. Even the music I listen to, I want to be inspired. I listen to H.E.R., Queen Latifah, Alicia Keys, Nina Simone, FKA Twigs, Beyoncé. I don’t keep myself in one generation, I channel power from beautiful Black goddesses of past and present.

The art history era of Art Nouveau is a style that I draw much inspiration from. Golds, pastels, and stunningly graceful renderings of women. I created “Black Nouveau” where I adopt from Art Nouveau but render Black women and my ideas, in all grace, beauty, sensuality, and power! 

How do you define success as an artist? What do you wish to accomplish?

For my work to be seen is success. To be exhibited within museums and galleries where young children of color can look up to my artwork and recognize themselves. And, of course, as a working artist within the primary art market, to be paid for my art is imperative and one of my definitions of success. To create and to have the platform to continue creating is a dream! I wish for my work to continue to be seen, not only in Canada and the United States but beyond. What a gift it is to share my art with the world and what an honor it would be for these wishes to transpire! 

What are you besides an artist? How do you define your role in life? 

I am a partner, daughter, and sister. I want happiness. I strive for my happiness. I thrive when I’m happy. I want to live a comfortable life, I want my family to be happy. I continue to be amused by this wonderful world and explore my many passions in life. We are complex creatures and I think it’s important to nurture that, to weave our own tapestries of life filled with our unique colors, textures, and patterns.