10 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About Synthia Saint James
Sure, you might recognize Synthia SAINT JAMES’ bold, vibrant, and joy-filled artwork, but do you really know the woman behind the masterpieces? Buckle up—here are 10 facts about this legend that will make you appreciate her even more.
1. She’s Self-Taught
That’s right—no fancy art school here. SAINT JAMES honed her craft on her own, proving that raw talent, dedication, and a unique vision can take you all the way to the top.
2. She Designed the First Kwanzaa Stamp
In 1997, she created the first-ever U.S. Kwanzaa stamp, and it was such a hit that the Postal Service invited her back in 2016 to design the Forever Kwanzaa Stamp for the holiday’s 50th anniversary. Now that’s what we call stamping your mark on history.
Synthia SAINT JAMES, Jook Joint Gullah Islands
3. Her Art Was on the Cover of Waiting to Exhale
Remember Terry McMillan’s bestselling novel Waiting to Exhale? The original cover featuring four Black women in warm, radiant tones? Yup, that was all SAINT JAMES. Her art literally became the face of a cultural movement.
4. She’s Illustrated Over 75 Book Covers
Speaking of books, her work has graced the covers of more than 75, including children’s books, novels, and poetry collections. If you’re a book lover, chances are you’ve held a Synthia SAINT JAMES piece in your hands without even realizing it.
5. Her Work is in Embassies Around the World
SAINT JAMES’ art isn’t just beloved in the U.S.—it’s internationally recognized. Her paintings have been commissioned for embassies in countries like Sweden, South Africa, and Burkina Faso. Nothing says “global icon” like your art representing diplomacy.
6. She Wrote 17 Children’s Books
SAINT JAMES isn’t just a visual artist—she’s also an author. Her children’s books promote diversity, culture, and self-love, making her a creative force across multiple mediums.
7. She’s an Award-Winning Educator
Not content with just creating, SAINT JAMES is also an educator and speaker. She’s received numerous honors for her contributions to art and education, including a Coretta Scott King Honor. Teaching and painting? Some people really do it all.
8. She’s Painted Socially Conscious Murals
In 2010, she was commissioned to create a massive mural for the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Violence Against Women. Her work doesn’t just make a statement—it makes a difference.
Synthia SAINT JAMES, Ndebele Woman
9. She Was Inspired by Romare Bearden
One of her biggest artistic influences? The legendary Romare Bearden, known for his dynamic collages. You can definitely see echoes of his storytelling style in SAINT JAMES’ layered, narrative-driven work.
10. She’s Not Stopping Anytime Soon
With a career spanning over five decades, SAINT JAMES is still creating, inspiring, and making history. If you haven’t been paying attention, now’s the time to start.
So, What Now?
Easy—go download NALA, discover more of her work, and maybe (definitely) bring a piece of Synthia Saint James into your life. Because if there’s one thing this list proves, it’s that her art belongs everywhere.