Chellis Baird is an American artist who blends painting, sculpture, and textiles in her work. She reconstructs handwoven canvases by painting, dyeing, and sculpting neutral-toned materials into dimensional brushstrokes. Her tangled compositions are created through twists, knots, and upcycled textiles. Baird’s fashion background allows her to use color to emphasize the authenticity and body of each piece. She received her BFA in textiles from Rhode Island School of Design and had her first solo museum exhibition, TETHERED, at the Myrtle Beach Art Museum in South Carolina in 2021. Learn more about Chellis Baird and her work in today’s Maker Monday.
“Epilogue I, II, III, and IV”- Baird’s art explores the impact of daily actions on our social fabric.
Andrew Joseph: You’re the newest Crayola color. What color are you and why?
Chellis Baird: Lipstick red! It’s my favorite color and I continue to evolve the red palette in my work. In 2022 I had a solo exhibition at the National Arts Club called The Touch of Red inspired by the daily ritual of applying lipstick.
AJ: What’s inspiring you in life (in the industry) right now?
CB: I have a 2-year-old son and he brings me so much inspiration and joy.
“Hitchcock 2022” Through Baird’s work, she blurs the lines between paint and canvas, using twisted and knotted ropes to create tension and texture.
AJ: Favorite piece of clothing you own?
CB: Maison Ernest red patent pumps, the original french maker for the can-can shoes.
AJ: What’s something you always travel with?
CB: My sketchbook and agenda book. Separate areas for organizing and gathering thoughts into action.
“Freedom 2022” Drawing inspiration from dance, fashion, textiles, and color, Baird invites viewers to immerse themselves in the emotive tangles of her handwoven canvases and release their own emotions.
AJ: What would your dream project or dream client be right now?
CB: A fashion or dance collaboration. I am eager to try a set design or collaboration on a scarf.
AJ: What would you like to be remembered for?
CB: Inspiring others!
Baird received her BFA in textiles from Rhode Island School of Design and studied studio art at the Art Students League in New York City. Baird’s first solo museum exhibition, TETHERED, was held at the Myrtle Beach Art Museum in South Carolina from September 7 – December 19, 2021. Most recently, the artist was awarded a 2022 fellowship at the National Arts Club. Born in Spartanburg, SC, Baird now lives and works in New York City.
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