Emile Birch

On April 23rd, 2025 I attended a ceremony at Gilford Elementary School in Gilford, NH to present a plaque that I donated to acknowledge the "Gilford Common Ground" sculpture located outside the front entrance to the school. The event was wonderful, and the renewed interest and awareness of the sculpture and the symbolism behind the elements. They now use the sculpture in a symbolic gesture as all graduating 4th graders walk through "Gilford Common Ground" as a finale to the graduation ceremony . . . nice! The memory lives on.

In Providence County was dismayed to hear of my cousin's passing up North. Condolences to all. Emile was the son of Theresa, sister of my mother, Anita.

"Gilford Common Ground" Gilford, NH

My sincere condolences to Cynthia and family. Emile Birch was one of the kindest and most talented artists I've ever met. We all wanted to be artists like Emile, and envied the quality and scope of his work. I first met Emile in a graduate class at PSU; he was teaching a workshop on sculpture and we made tin foil human figures. Emile was the 1st Artist-In-Residency grant project I wrote in the early 1990's; a 42-day project that culminated in an outdoor concrete sculpture titled, "Gilford Common Ground". Fortunately, there are many images / examples throughout the state of New Hampshire of Emile's brilliance as artist; his legacy will live on. RIP to the "talented Frenchman". Sending much love to Cynthia and the family.

My sincerest sympathies Cindy and family. I met your husband, Emile when I was working at White River School in White River Jct, VT. He came to our school as an artist in residence working with students on a wall mural. Each student in grades Kindergarten thru fifth grade made their own tile and then they were all displayed together. Emile was very patient with the children and encouraged each student to use their creativity. He shared his talent and will never be forgotten. I'm praying that all the wonderful memories You and Your family have of Emile will help You all thru this sad time. Darlene Klebe Cote and family Take Care!

I remember snow shoeing with Cindy near their home and hearing Emile´s flute music drifting through the trees. It was an amazing beautiful moment in time. He was a gifted and kind man. Sending my love and prayers to Cindy and family.

I was so sorry to hear of his passing.
I've known Emile for decades through various art organizations and I will miss his hearty laugh and the many conversations we had over the years about art and family.