Black Lives Still Matter: Textile artist Simone Saunders launches new book at Contemporary Calgary

A new book featuring the unique work of Calgary fibre artist Simone Saunders is being launched May 1 at Contemporary Calgary's First Thursday event.

An award-winning Calgary textile artist is launching her new book at Contemporary Calgary’s First Thursday.

Simone Saunders, who graduated from the Alberta University of the Arts in 2020, creates vibrant work that explores themes of Black womanhood, ancestral connections and endurance through a unique technique known as tufting.

Following a smash hit exhibition of her work that included a show at Contemporary Calgary, Saunders’ work toured nationally and internationally, to New York, Miami and the Netherlands, among many places, and was widely featured in the media.

Now, a collection of 40 pieces she created between 2020 and 2023, are being featured in a new book, Encompass the Galaxy, will be launched as part of Contemporary Calgary’s First Thursday tonight at 5 p.m.

Saunders creates fibre art, which she says is rooted in “evoking memories of historical trauma related to colonial violence while simultaneously inciting joy, wonder, and resilience.”

It’s vivid work that celebrates the resilience and power of Black women.

“Art is my medium of resistance,” Saunders said, in a media release. “In a world where rights are questioned, my work is a reminder that the struggle continues and that we cannot afford to turn back.

“My work is deeply connected to the legacy of Black women and labour, using tufting as a means of bridging genealogical ruptures and reclaiming my Caribbean heritage,” she said. “And as history teaches us, that progress is never guaranteed – so through each work, I am connecting with my ancestors for guidance.”

Encompass the Galaxy is on sale at Contemporary Calgary’s c store.

Thursday will also feature the Look25 Art Auction. Sponsored by Heather Edwards, it’s a showcase of works by many of Canada’s most notable artists. From 5-9 p.m.

For information, go here.