Weaving Identity, Art, and Power — with SIMONE ELIZABETH SAUNDERS

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AVD INSPIRE with Aly Velji

Alykhan Velji Designs

17 episodes

2 days ago

AVD INSPIRE is where global interior design meets unfiltered creativity. Hosted by designer and creative director Alykhan Velji, this podcast goes behind the scenes of the design industry with editors, makers, and artists redefining the spaces we live in. Each week, Aly lights a candle to spark the creative process and dives into raw, inspiring conversations about staying creative through the chaos. From big wins to flops—this is interior design with heart, humor, and zero ego. Think weirder. Design better. Trust your gut again. This isn’t just a podcast—it’s your creative spark.

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All content for AVD INSPIRE with Aly Velji is the property of Alykhan Velji Designs and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

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Weaving Identity, Art, and Power — with SIMONE ELIZABETH SAUNDERS

AVD INSPIRE with Aly Velji

25 minutes 21 seconds

3 months ago

Weaving Identity, Art, and Power — with SIMONE ELIZABETH SAUNDERS

This week on AVD Inspire, I’m joined by the brilliant and bold Simone Elizabeth Saunders, one of Canada’s most celebrated contemporary textile artists. Her hand-tufted portraits are more than art — they’re powerful statements rooted in Black womanhood, visual storytelling, and ancestral connection.

Simone's rise from a decade-long career in theatre to becoming a globally recognized fiber artist is nothing short of inspiring. Her work has been exhibited in major galleries from Toronto to Miami, featured in Forbes, CBC, and Colossal, and now lives inside her stunning new book, Encompass the Galaxy.

In this heart-to-heart full of vibes and real talk, we talk about:– The transition from performing arts to contemporary textile art– Centering Black identity, feminine strength, and history in visual work– Tufting, punch needle, and the tactile power of fiber-based storytelling– How Simone curated Noir Nouveau for Contemporary Calgary’s LOOK Gala– Trusting your voice (even when the world doesn’t get it yet)– Creative rituals, spiritual practice, and the role of ancestral wisdom in her art– The reality of being a Black female artist navigating today’s art world

Whether you're an artist, a dreamer, or someone seeking creative courage, this episode will remind you that your story is your superpower — and that art is a revolutionary act.

Connect with Simone Elizabeth Saunders

Want more of Simone’s vibrant, powerful world? Follow her here:

Sponsored by Bow Valley College

Bow Valley College is Calgary's College. In 2025, we are celebrating 60 years of launching professional journeys and providing students with opportunities to advance and evolve their careers. As Calgary's largest downtown post-secondary campus, we are a catalyst for change through our students and graduates.