Artist story

 

Cynthia Bourque Simonds is a Maine basket weaver based in the greater Blue Hill Penninsula. For over ten years, her work has used traditional techniques and natural materials to produce modern designs. Each creation is built from a simple concept and tastefully embellished in her trained hands.

Materials sourcing is a key aspect to Seaweave works. Cynthia's creative process involves careful wood selection, sourcing locally in Maine and with other choice suppliers. She works with First Nation farmers in Maine and Alaska to source sustainable furs and other precious elements. Some materials are collected individually by Cynthia, such as the sweetgrass she harvests on her own every year.

Materials are as much a collaborator as they are a resource in the execution of Cynthia's work.

“Coil vessels create energy from their color combinations, and wood extracts it with its soft, meditative beauty. I think my work is meant to be held as much as admired. Basket owners should experience the material and pattern’s full character in their own hands.”
— Cynthia Bourque Simonds

Study

Since her start in 2011, Cynthia had studied at numerous craft academies, including Haystack Mountain School of Craft and Schoodic Arts. She has studied with and been mentored by regarded artists such as Theresa Secord, Lissa Hunter, and Pat Hickman.

Cynthia is certified for Lifetime Arts and a member of the Maine Craft Association. She has shared her experience in the schools she has attended, and in programs at many area schools and libraries.

Shows

2020

  • Island Artisans, Seasonal collection

  • September: Deer Isle Artists Association, Raven’s Call

  • August: Deer Isle Artists Association, Small Works

  • July: Monson Arts with Pat Hickman, Structures

2019

  • September: Blue Hill Public Library, Visions & Vessels

2018

  • August: Deer Isle Artists Association, Small Works

  • May: Deer Isle Artists Association, In Praise of Hands

  • May - December: Island Artists, Bar Harbor and Northeast Harbor, ME

2017

  • December: Sedgwick Elementary School, exhibit and instruction of basketry to students

  • September: Deer Isle Artists Association, Small works

  • August: Deer Isle Artists Association, Fresh Ink

  • July: Deer Isle Artists Association, All Member 12x12

  • June: Deer Isle Artists Association, A Fine Table

  • May - December: Island Artists, Bar Harbor and Northeast Harbor, ME

2016

  • October: Deer Isle Artist Association, vessels show

  • August: Haystack Mountain School of Craft, exhibition

  • July: Deer Isle Artists Association, All Members 12x12

  • July: Deer Isle Artists Association, Unbeaten Channels

  • February: Residency at DIAA, study of knots as embellishments

  • February: Deer Isle Artists Association, ART Matters Speaker on Vessels

2015

  • December: Deer Isle Artists Association, Small Works and Gifts

  • August: Deer Isle Artists Association. 12 x 12 Benefit

  • June: Pearson Legacy Gallery, on-going small arts display

  • June: Deer Isle Artists Association, Body Of Work

  • May: Maine Craft Association at Haystack, art show

2014

  • December: Deer Isle Artists Association, Small Works Show

  • May - August: Treasure and Gift, online sale

2013

  • Pearson Legacy Gallery, on-going small arts display

  • November-December: Deer Isle Artists Association, Small Works Show

  • October-November: Eggemoggin Textile Studio, fall show

  • February: Pearson Legacy Gallery, Favorite Places Around the World

2012

  • Pearson Legacy Gallery, holiday show