Eileen Friars Leader-in-Residence flaunts bold artistry

By Jordan Jackson
Staff Writer

Two weeks ago, Simmons College had the honor of hosting world-renowned visual artist, author, and illustrator Synthia Saint James.

Saint James is best known for designing the first Kwanzaa Stamp for the U.S. Postal Service in 1997, for which she received a History Maker Award, and for her cover art for Terry McMillan’s book “Waiting to Exhale.” Her artwork has also been featured in several United States Embassies throughout the world since the 1990s through the Art in Embassies Program.

Saint James is a self-taught artist, and as a result her work emits a unique energy and style. Saint James’ pieces are characterized by bright colors and figures whose simple yet impactful styling makes them all the more relatable.

The subject matter of these pieces ranges from real life scenes Saint James has observed during her travels throughout the western hemisphere to abstract concepts of unity, social progress, and Saint James’ African and Native American heritage.

Saint James’ pieces have a truly therapeutic quality that has been recognized by the general public. For instance, her piece “Totem” was replicated in the courtyard of an apartment complex that houses people with mental health issues and people who were at one point homeless.  The residents of the apartment complex will walk by “Totem” everyday, and the hope is that it will contribute to the positive and supportive environment.

While Saint James got her start doing private commissions, she now mainly provides art to help non-profit organizations create beautiful spaces and earn money. Some of these nonprofits include the International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters, Children’s Institute International, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, the Harlem Book Fair, the United Way, and the National Education Association. She often allows organizations to make merchandise with her artwork, and sell this merchandise for a profit. This money then goes back into funding the organizations and their mission.

Saint James recently made a generous contribution to Simmons College as well. A few of her favorite pieces will hang in the Palace Road Building for the rest of the month. Additionally, there are copies of her work available for purchase in the Office of the Dean, and a portion of these proceeds will go to Simmons.

Not only did Saint James give us a sampling of her style, but she also made sure to engage with Simmons students. Students and faculty had the opportunity to take a tour of her work in the Palace Road Building, guided by Saint James herself.

Additionally, Saint James spoke at the panel “Art, Media, Politics.” She even offered a workshop titled “The Business of Art” where students could learn about the business side of the arts world, and how to market themselves as artists.

If you were unable to attend any of the various events, you’ll definitely want to make sure that you get a chance to see the art displayed in the Palace Road Building. Take a study break, relax, and enjoy some wonderful art by a wonderful lady.