Cindy Rivarde's work focuses on connections and resonance in response to a sense of place and time. She was born in Toledo, Ohio and lives in Columbia, Maryland. She attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she received a B.A. in art and dramatic art in 1988 and received the Paul and Elizabeth Green Award for women in theater. She also received her M.F.A. in painting from Towson University in 2004. In her early career, she was a scenic artist at Hartford Stage, PlayMakers Theatre, Long Wharf Theater, and Baltimore Center Stage. She has exhibited across the country and is in numerous private collections. Ms. Rivarde is also an economic development professional who builds communities with a strong talent for placemaking and engagement. She has overseen numerous cultural programming for cities including public art programs, cultural grants programs, musical series, film location services, and operation of cultural assets.