Today we’d like to introduce you to Cheryl Hinton.
Hi Cheryl, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From a very young age, my hands have been my most reliable guides, transforming simple materials into objects of beauty and tangible purpose. My work spans a lifetime of creation: coats, jackets and dresses, capes, costumes, flowing wedding dresses, and the necessary solemnity of shrouds. I’ve always loved venturing beyond clothing, too, crafting charming stuffed animals, cozy pillows, simple curtains, mixed media portraits, unique dolls, and lasting flowers. Even today, I find deep satisfaction in sewing and breathing new life into old garments through upcycling.
My journey as a Fabric Sculptress began not in a classroom, but right at my grandmother’s side. I watched, captivated, as she worked her quiet magic—making flowers from tissue paper, warm blankets from scraps, crochet afghans, and beautiful church hats. This priceless, hands-on education shaped my artistic soul, instilling the deep knowledge that the more I created, the better I became. For decades now, I have also been a Griot, a storyteller whose narratives are expressed through the very fibers of my being, my creations, and my work as an educator.
While the arts are my lifelong passion, I also dedicated myself to academia. I earned my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Delaware State University and Coppin State University, establishing a rewarding career as a higher educator. My commitment in this role extended deeply into academic advising,diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Prior to and during this position, I passionately facilitated various workshops to foster understanding, build community, and promote an environment where all students and colleagues felt truly seen and supported.
Yet, my artistic energy never waned. I spent years studying and performing West African dance. This led me to create costumes, accoutrements, and adornments for instruments, which also created opportunities for me to sew for other performers. Deep down, I knew I was talented but modest, and so consumed by curiosity that I traveled to various countries for hands-on cultural immersion experiences. It was through this blend of creation and exploration that my real self-assurance finally blossomed.
I kept my academic and artistic worlds separate for a long time. It wasn’t until just before my retirement that I was asked to combine these distinct backgrounds. I was so glad I accepted! That opportunity led me to become the Director of Multicultural Affairs at a university. Honestly, looking back, it was truly the best job I could have ever had, as it allowed me to use my creative and educational skills simultaneously to champion belonging.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
While my love for the arts was boundless, the reality of being a married woman with children meant that holding a full-time job was not optional—it was essential. I could write stories about the tough stretches but I’m still grateful that we prevailed. It taught me the crucial skill of balance. Through it all, the real triumph has been, and continues to be, the discipline of always saving room for my creative spirit. It’s this commitment that allows me to find deep, sustained joy in every thread I pull, every journey I take, and with every person I choose to share my life’s space.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a Griot, my hands and voice are constantly telling stories:
I have sewn hundreds of costumes for dance companies, universities, and theater companies.
I’ve customized dresses for a few major life events, from joyous wedding gowns to shrouds.
I’ve created comfort bears from meaningful fabrics like flannel shirts, African prints, and bizan textiles.
I sculpted original dolls with my own designs and upcycled countless pieces of clothing, giving them a beautiful second life.
My creativity also reached the canvas with mixed media and occasional oil painting.
My voice found its form in writing short stories, songs, and poems. I even published a wonderful children’s book called Kayla’s Magic Eyes which focuses on the virtue of truth-telling.
My lifelong passion for creation was not just for personal enjoyment, but a force that provides comfort, elevates performance, and enrich community, all while honoring my heritage. All that I am and all that I do continues actively to this day. I feel blessed and highly favored to live a life that weaves together creation, education, inclusion, and the deep tradition of storytelling.
There are quite a few projects that I am proud of but most memorable was showcasing my work with Tribe 55+ ‘From Roots to Sky, A Curated Exhibition Celebrating Black Women Artists and Writers.’ To exhibit among brilliant Creatives was a humbling yet very proud moment for me.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Hmmm….. I’m not sure. Let’s keep them in suspense!
Contact Info:
- Facebook: Facebook.com/lovespieces
