Artist Bio
Artist and archaeologist, bridging history and creativity in her mixed media creations. Huntsville native, global inspiration.
Cindy Miller's artistic journey is a remarkable tapestry that intertwines her passion for art and her love for archaeology, resulting in a body of work that is diverse and captivating.
Born and raised in Huntsville, Alabama, Cindy's artistic odyssey began to take shape while she pursued her studies in art at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Simultaneously, she delved into the demanding world of graphic design, embracing the challenges of a full-time job while nurturing her creative spirit through personal artistic exploration outside the realms of work and academia.
In a pivotal twist, Cindy's path led her to the majestic landscapes of Boulder, Colorado, where she embarked on a profound journey into the realms of archaeology and anthropology. Over the course of a decade, she immersed herself in the rich cultural tapestry of the region, earning a degree from the University of Colorado. This chapter in her life not only enriched her understanding of history but also profoundly influenced her artistic expression.
In 2007, a new adventure awaited Cindy as she accepted the role of Program Manager for the Graphic Contract at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Here, Cindy's artistry continued to evolve amid the intersection of technology, science, and creative expression, further enriching her unique perspective.
However, the call of her roots eventually drew her back to Huntsville in 2015. It was here that she fulfilled a long-held dream, establishing her own art studio within the Lowe Mill Arts and Entertainment complex. This move marked a significant turning point, allowing her to fully embrace her identity as a studio artist.
Cindy's artistic journey is a testament to the power of blending diverse passions. Having honed her craft as a graphic designer for over two decades, she sought new horizons of creative exploration. Her fascination with silversmithing sparked a transformation, leading her to discover the enchanting world of Precious Metal Clay (PMC). Since 2004, Cindy's skilled hands have sculpted this versatile material into wearable works of art, each bearing the imprint of her unique narrative.
In a crowning achievement, Cindy's dedication and ingenuity earned her the prestigious Saul Bell Award in 2017, an international recognition celebrating excellence in jewelry design. This honor underscored her unwavering commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and infusing her creations with profound depth and meaning.
As the world grappled with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cindy returned to her artistic roots. She rekindled her passion for painting and mixed media, drawing inspiration from her anthropological studies and her intimate connection with the Colorado mountains. Her artwork, born from this introspective period, serves as a reflection of her diverse influences.
Cindy Miller's artistic journey is an exploration of creativity, history, and the intricate interplay between them. Her work stands as a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one's passions, resulting in creations that transcend boundaries and resonate deeply with those who encounter them. With her studio nestled in Huntsville's creative epicenter, Cindy continues to shape her narrative, inviting the world to join her on this captivating artistic odyssey.
Exhibitions/Awards
2024 – Solo Exhibition, Lowe Mill Arts, Huntsville, AL
2024 – Solo Exhibition, Alabama Women's Caucus on the Arts Awards
2023 – Carnegie Visual Arts Center, Decatur, AL - “Celebrate Art” Exhibit - Director's Award
2023 – Carnegie Visual Arts Center, “Celebrate Art”, Decatur, AL, Contributing Artist
2023 – Alabama Women's Caucus on the Arts (ALWCA), “Call and Response”, Huntsville, AL, Contributing Artist
2023 – WCACarolinas, “Call and Response”, North Carolina
2023 – Carnegie Visual Arts Center, “Myth and Form”, Decatur, AL, Contributing Artist
2020 – Alabama Council on the Arts/National Endowment for the Arts, Individual Artist Grant Recipient
2021 – Piedmont Craftsmen Guild Group Show, Huntsville, AL, Contributing Artist and Curator
2017 – Saul Bell Award, International Award, First Place Metal Clay
2016 – Carnegie Visual Arts Center, “Across the Bridge: Works by Artists at Lowe Mill”, Decatur, AL, Contributing Artist
2015 – RiverClay Fine Arts Festival, Decatur, AL - 2nd Overall
2014 – Staunton Augusta Arts Center, Staunton, Virginia, Gallery Show
2013 – Staunton Augusta Art Show, Staunton, Virginia, Best of Show
2011 – Crafthaus Exhibition: “New Directions: Powder Metallurgy in a Sheet Metal World”,Contributing Artist
2008 – Purdue University Exhibition: “Cultural Messages: Symbolism Through the Ages”,Purdue, Indiana, Contributing Artist Scheduled Exhibitions
Publications:
Art Jewelry Magazine Vol 7 Issue 1, Project Column, Article: Make Your First Hollow Metal Clay Bead, and featured in the Gallery Section
Art Jewelry Magazine, July 2009, Featured in Artist Gallery
Art Jewelry Magazine, July 2010, Featured in Artist Gallery
Metal Clay ArtistMagazine Vol. 2 Issue 3, Expert Advice column, Article: Collagraphic Texture Sheets, In the News column, one of the featured artist in the coverage of the New Directions exhibition.
BeadStyle Magazine, Vol.8 Issue 6, 2010, The hollow bead created for the Art Jewelry article was featured in a design article for this issue
Fusion: The Journal of the International PMC Guild, Vol 7 Issue 1, 2009
Fusion: The Journal of the International PMC Guild, Vol 8 Issue 2, 2009
PMC Guild Annual, 2010
PMC Guild Annual, 2011
Contemporary Metal Clay Rings, Brynmorgen Press 2012
Cindy has been featured in galleries, and retail shops across the country including Alabama, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington DC.
Click here for the Metal Clay Today Artist Profile
Click here for Information of the Saul Bell Award and an Interview with Cindy