Statement

Ballard is a mixed media artist who describes her work as a re-imagined visual narrative of African descent people. Her use of imagery reflects social issues affecting primarily Black women. Her current body of work uses collaged photos adorned with paint, oil pastels, and metallic foils.

Personal family photographs and imagery sourced from historical archives are deconstructed and layered on sliced wood and reclaimed wood fences. The fence pays homage to playwright August Wilson. And symbolically, it serves as a metaphor for barriers, such as racial and gender discrimination that keep black people physically in and out of segments in our society.

The fusion of wood and photography offers artwork that explores Ballard’s southern roots and visually speaks volumes to continuing themes within her community.

More Than A Pretty Face, 2018
Mixed Media/Collage on Hand carved Birchwood Panel
18h x 24w in