Marcia Ballou
Art gives me the power to capture wonderful colorful moments - a glimmer
Facebook: marcia.ballou
Scituate, MA
Collage
The subject of color inspires me. I am a collage artist. I work to employ both deliberate and spontaneous appliqués. I begin the composition with a simple sketch in color pencil. On the board or canvas I add the colors of light and atmosphere. I apply the paint with intuitive gestures. I use spray paint, scraped paint, splattered paint and stenciled patterns. I then sift through a collection of painted and cloth. The pieces are cut or torn and applied with acrylic medium. With the stitched pieces I paint the fabric and hand sew the composition. I do not use any pins or glue.
My compositions are enlivened by the unexpected combination of shapes and colors. And those patterns create blossoms of textures on the surface of the painting. My goal is to evoke joy.
I make painted paper and textile collages
A moment you try to create again and again?
A moment that I try to create again and again is: on a sparkling summer day with blue skies and brightly blooming flowers. I witnessed dragonflies and butterflies holding court above the tops of the flowers. The brilliant dance sparkling with joy.
What do you hope people will feel when they see it?
I hope that the combination of color and shapes create a moment of joy. A feeling of peace.
How does your work create community or bring people together?
One of my favorite activities in the community was creating the Mural -Celebration- that hangs on the grounds of the Art Complex Museum in Duxbury, Massachusetts. While I worked on the mural those who came to watch painted on rice paper that I used in the mural like confetti. And put together colorful pieces of paper like flowers and we hung them with pipe cleaners on pieces of bamboo grown on the grounds. They created a floral waterfall. So joyful!
It was such a lovely example of little pieces put together by many hands becomes something wonderful.
Who helped you along the way?
The South Shore Arts Community is robust! Being a part of it is inspiring and validating. The Art Organizations have provided exhibition and teaching opportunities. The Frame Center in Hanover has educated me on finishing my work with exceptional framing and enthusicatic support. And the collectors that have been drawn to the collective quality of all the artists in he area and have found my work to hang on their walls. The best affirmation of all.
How do you give back/support others?
Over the years I have volunteered at the Art Organizations and Art Centers. I have also had the opportunity to collect from local artists. Being able to look at their art in my home is an inspiration. I treasure the opportunities to talk about art and ideas with these fine artists. I appreciate their talent and I hope they know that.
