SPIRITS AND COLORS are two of the main traits that define my art. I seek to celebrate and honor nature and convey its spirit within each piece. I spend a great deal of time listening to nature and trying to learn from it. As a result, I look for signs and "sprits" in my subjects and allow them to guide me along the way. The end goal – to show ordinary objects in extraordinary ways.

Many who view my work ponder the question, "Is it a painting or a photograph?" The answer is "both" – though truly more of a painting. The process begins with the subject, some film and my antiquated camera. I take black and white slides (using natural light) and from them produce photographic images that are transferred – through various means – onto wood, paper, or other receptors. I have developed my own methods using Polaroid instant film, heavily pigmented paint, epoxy and other tools.

As you view my work, I encourage you to look first for enjoyment…then allow the piece to provoke your imagination…stir emotions…and in the end experience its true SPIRITS AND COLORS.

Please remember that all copyright restrictions apply. All images are copyrighted by Michael S. Ballew and are protected under U.S. and international copyright laws. No image may be copied, reproduced, stored or used otherwise without written permission of the artist.