Roots to Steps: Paméla Simard’s Artful Ascent

In the heart of her home, Paméla Simard has created something extraordinary—a staircase that transcends functionality and embodies her deep connection to nature. Made from Baltic Birch and Ash, this staircase is not just a structure; it’s a work of art, crafted entirely by hand using only a bandsaw.

Crafting with Purpose

Paméla Simard, a French-Canadian artist with a global presence, has always been passionate about wood. Her work spans from the Cité de Arts de Paris to the Organization of Human Brain Mapping in Glasgow, with collaborations at prestigious institutions like the BRaIN Institute at McGill University and the Davis Lab at UC San Francisco. Yet, at her core, Paméla is deeply rooted in the art of woodworking.

A Meditative Process

Paméla’s approach to woodworking is almost meditative. “Even working in a lumber mill, there’s a sense of having to educate people about what lumber is and isn’t,” she says. “A lot of people see it as dead weight, a term used for construction material. They’re very disconnected from how a tree is grown and the value of wood.”

Her philosophy is about honoring the life of trees. “To buy quality material, to work with something that used to be a living thing, brings satisfaction and meaning to my work. I owe the tree I’m working with to do something great.”

Nature-Inspired Design

The design of Paméla’s staircase draws from the natural world—topographical maps and waves of elevation. This concept emerged during a mentorship for home contractors in Vermont, where she delved into home design intricacies.

Each step of the staircase celebrates the wood’s natural beauty. Baltic Birch and Ash were chosen for their strength and aesthetic appeal. The bandsaw work highlights the grain and texture, creating a visual narrative that invites appreciation of the material’s inherent characteristics.

Handcrafted with Care

For Paméla, crafting by hand is essential. “Working with my hands connects me to the earth and nature,” she says. “It’s about creating something strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing, something meaningful that you don’t want to discard every year.”

Her process is meticulous and labor-intensive. Using a bandsaw allowed her to achieve precise cuts and curves, bringing her vision to life. Each step was shaped with care, ensuring the final product was both sturdy and visually stunning.

A Tribute to Labor and Skill

Paméla’s relationship to labor is profound. “I grew up in a working-class family where we did everything ourselves. I constantly feel like I have to be productive to validate my existence. For me, labor has always been very important. It’s been my manifesto, but in art school, people undermined this.”

Reflecting on those experiences, she notes, “People questioning craft are afraid that an artist can be creative, design it, and then make it themselves.”

Conclusion

Paméla Simard’s staircase is a celebration of artistry, craftsmanship, and the natural world. It’s a testament to her talent and dedication. By honoring the life of trees and transforming wood into fine art, Paméla redefines what it means to be an artist.

Stay tuned to our blog for more insights into Paméla Simard’s work and artistic journey.