ST. LOUIS, MO – Harris-Stowe State University will host its first artist in residence, Synthia Saint James, February 2-8, 2014, with a lecture presentation on Wednesday, February 5, 2014, at 7 p.m. in the Emerson Performance Center’s Bank of America Theatre.
Synthia Saint James is a world-renowned multicultural visual artist, author, popular speaker and architectural designer who has garnered numerous awards over her 40-plus year career, including the prestigious Trumpet Award and her first honorary doctorate degree from Saint Augustine’s College, both in 2010.
She is most celebrated for designing the first Kwanzaa Stamp for the United States Postal Service for which she received a History Maker Award and for the international cover art for Terry McMillan’s book “Waiting to Exhale.” Additionally, her paintings have graced the covers for more than 70 books, including books by Alice Walker and Iyanla Vanzant.
“Harris-Stowe is so pleased to offer such a special event to not only the Harris-Stowe community but the entire St. Louis metropolitan community as well,” said Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Michelle McClure. “Ms. Saint James has the ability to capture and illustrate the ‘black experience’ in stunning and colorful ways, and I have been a fan of hers for many years. It is an honor that we will have her on campus during Black History Month so that she can share her expertise.”
During Saint James’ stay in St. Louis, the artist will interact with Harris-Stowe students in the classroom and serve as a guest lecturer in art classes. She will even participate in a finger-painting session with children enrolled at the William L. Clay Early Childhood Development/Parenting Education Center.
Wednesday’s lecture presentation, “The Creative World of Synthia Saint James,” will give the audience an in-depth look into the world of Saint James, her life and work, while viewing her art on exhibit. Displayed works of art will be sold that night, with 40 percent of the proceeds to be donated to HSSU. The lecture and reception is free and open to the public. Following Saint James’ week of residency at HSSU, her paintings will continue to be featured in the university’s AT&T Library and Technology Resource Center until March 1, 2014.
