Biographical Sketch
Cynthia Lockhart’s fiber art is infused with a kaleidoscope of diverse influences such as: nature, fashion, music, dance, travel, African and other cultural arts. Lockhart’s textiles are distinguished by their pulsating colors, which simulate the vivaciousness of her African ancestry, and by their irregular, organic shapes and circles. The artist's textile creations, which push the boundaries of the traditional quilt form, are composed of colorful fabrics arranged in dynamic patterns. Her fashion and accessories design background provide the perfect platform for creating exquisite three-dimensional artwork. Lockhart's fiber art tells a story - one that encourages people to understand the diversity of people, cultures, and beauty in the world around them.
Lockhart was honored with an art review in the New York Times for “Threads of Faith”, a group exhibition, in 2004. Her work is included in the collections of the Cincinnati Art Museum, University of Cincinnati, Michigan State University and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. In addition, she was featured in a solo show at the Weston Gallery at the Aronoff Center in Cincinnati. Lockhart’s work has been featured in “The Artist Magazine” and numerous other books and publications. She is a member of the Women of Color Quilters Network. Noteworthy is her inclusion in the “Encyclopedia of African American Artists”, and her artwork was featured on the cover of iconic fashion magazine, “Women’s Wear Daily”.
As an award-winning artist, she continues to be an active contributor in the design and art community from a local, national, and International perspective. As Associate Professor at the University of Cincinnati, Professor Lockhart has lectured at conferences and museums throughout the United States, Japan, Italy and France. In her role as Emerita Professor, Lockhart taught Fiber Art Fashion, Art of Jewelry & Leather Accessory Design and Masters of Design Professional Development Seminar courses at the College of Design, Art and Architecture at the University of Cincinnati. Her work was on exhibit at the Taft Museum of Art, “Journey to Freedom”, December 2019 – March 2020. Recently, Lockhart’s art was included in a group exhibition, “The Ardent Thread”, at the Artist Archives of the Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio. In 2021, Lockhart received the Ohio Arts Council Individual Excellence Award. Cynthia’s art can be found at Gallery 708, located on Hyde Park Square in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Artist Statement
I believe that an artist is called to create and to inspire others. This is a unique gift. In this role, I am constantly pushing to achieve original concepts. My art includes: mixed media, layering techniques, painting, dyeing, silk screen techniques, found objects, folded draped details and embellishment of beads, lace, braid, cording and leather. The journey of life and its path continue to be a source of my inspiration. In addition, my Faith is a strong influence on my art. It is my desire that my artwork encourages people to see the endless possibilities of Hope, Joy & Love.