Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Hunter.
Cynthia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born and raised in Baltimore. I have always been fascinated with handcrafts. Most of my maternal figures are craftswomen, whether it be clay, fiber, paper, or found objects. In 2017, I graduated from University of Baltimore with a degree in Digital Communications and throughout the years I worked in corporate America all while exploring various handcraft techniques. I was always smitten by the artsy MPT broadcasts that my grandmother would watch as she crafted. One day I watched a documentary about African beadwork and waistbeads. Intrigued with these beads, I went to Baltimore’s renowned local bead store to investigate. The venture into Beadazzled in 2014 was the beginning of my art practice.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I have definitely faced obstacles in my career. There’s a lack of support, in the fashion and art industries, for small designers when it comes to business structure or funding. It feels like a lot of the information is hidden even at a time where information is accessible. I see a fundamental flaw in the opportunities available for black artists. The industry’s concept of a designer’s path is a conventional one, leaving people like myself ineligible.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I found my artistic niche in beads. I enjoy delving into beads mentally and physically depending on the circumstances. My favorite stitch is peyote and over time I’ve added two stitches, netting, and herringbone. These three are like sister stitches to me as they transition from one stitch to the next so effortlessly. I feel that beads alone give me the most inspiration. If you understand the mechanics and technicality of the stitch, then you can create whatever your heart desires. With my journey as an emerging artist, I plan to teach, develop, and preserve the ancient craft of beadwork. My first sculptural piece was juried into an exhibition at Baltimore Jewelry Center. BJC has always supported my growth and development. I firmly believe that community contributions help preserve an artistic heritage while assisting individuals whose tradition is linked to history and culture. This spring, I’ll be launching a beaded handbag collection with Nigerian bead artisans. I’m so excited to share beadweaving in a contemporary way and to see where my art practice takes me!
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
There is no right or wrong path, there’s only your path. Sometimes there isn’t a blueprint because that road was only meant for you to take. If I had known this sooner, I would have been less troubled about how my work was received and more confident in my vision for my business. Follow the momentum of your energy, develop your craft, and balance rest and other mundane tasks. Your sincere commitment to your practice is the path to becoming a successful artist. Trusting your instincts and believing in yourself is paramount to artistic happiness and success.
Pricing:
- $175-300 handwoven beaded handbags
Contact Info:
- Email: yocyndie333@gmail.com
- Website: www.yocyndie.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/yocyndieee
Image Credits
Cieara Adams
Katelyn King
