Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristin Ballard
Hi Kristin, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Hello!! My name is Kristin my Art name is Kris G .and artist from South Central Los Angeles. It’s been quite a journey. I really began focusing on my art a few years ago. Like many, I found myself with more time on my hands during the pandemic, which was when I really started to dive deep into my artistic endeavors.
My art really became my lifeline when I was diagnosed with cancer. It forced me to stay at home, and during those quieter times, I turned to my art even more. It wasn’t just a way to distract myself; it was a way to truly get to know myself and trust in the creative process. Painting offered me a sense of normalcy and helped me cope with everything that was happening.
Since going into remission, art has become all-consuming for me. I eat, sleep, and breathe it. It’s constantly on my mind, and I’m passionate about how it can bring joy and meaning to others. Art has been a blessing in my life, and I’m eager to share that beauty with the world.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Receiving my medical diagnosis completely flipped my world on its head. However, it also granted me a period of solitude and calm that I desperately needed. This quiet time allowed me to discover the beauty within myself and recognize the beauty I can create. It has entirely transformed my perspective and helped me see past the imposter syndrome that often clouds my view. Now, I can more clearly appreciate the gifts that God has given me.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in embroidery art although I do double in acrylic paint. My heart is in the embroidery artistry. I am incredibly proud of the work I produce. I feel like embroidery art has a history of being something maybe grandmothers do you want a napkin or for a towel which is very true but this is more of embroidery art with the twist using hip-hop influences and cultural influences representing who I am and where I’m from.
How do you define success?
How I would define success? Success for me is being able to show up in space as my hole and authentic self doing what I love, enjoying what I have obtained from allowing myself to show up in my entirety. Seeing all the time and hard work, I’ve put into what I love payoff . Being financially stable to not to have to look at a bank statement just to be able to enjoy this beautiful world in all the great greatness in it.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Houseof_krisgartistry
Image Credits
Photo credit :Kris G.
