Image Synthia Saint James Photo by Leroy HamiltonSynthia is American educator, author and an international award winning visual artist who is best known for the original cover art of the hardcover edition of Terry McMillan’s book Waiting to Exhale and for designing the first Kwanzaa stamp for the United States Postal Service, which was first issued in 1997.

Her work also includes the 150 foot ceramic tile mural for Ontario International Airport and six 4 X 9 foot elevator doors for California’s State Capitol as well the commissioned painting entitled “In Unity” for the Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters. This painting was to honor the 12 black fire fighters who were lost in the terrorist attacks of September 11th.

Saint James, a lover of travel, has visited several countries around the globe including Brazil. There she spent time in the state of Bahia where she had good time and tried to educate herself about the African influences in this northeast state. “Brazil has been a long awaited dream come true and the city of Salvador quenches a strong African and multicultural influencies”, said Synthia.Image Synthia Saint James Art 2

She states her spiritual inspiration for a series of paintings first began back in the 1980’s, which now filled her home. The artist explains that the trip to Brazil  years ago was a homecoming and that her favorite treat was walking along the lake and viewing the dieties, standing in greatness and feeling the warmth of their spirits and the people.

This good natured, charismatic artist has a saying that combines with her personality: “Wishing you everything that you wish yourself and more”. Her colorful work can be seen on Amazon, Target, eBay, World Market and more. 

Facebook Comments