Central Gallery Reception: The Spiritus Series (Beyond the Surface) by Scott Ballard

I love painting in and around my NC High Country home in Ashe County, and I began my Spiritus Series in 2025. These varied works that are less about literal representation and beyond Impressionism depicting more essence, energy, and what is beyond the surface, the soul of the landscape or creature.

While I do paint on canvas, I prefer the natural feel of wood panels, many of which I cut myself to specific sizes. I love going bigger and one of my favorite pieces was a commissioned two-panel 12.5 x 4’ indoor mural “The Birds of Wyoming” for a Wildlife Biology lab on the University of Wyoming campus. My method is called alla prima or the direct/wet-on-wet technique of oil painting with very little or no thinning. I offer the colors a chance to blend and fuse into something new and unique every time.

Each painting is a conversation. Sometimes when I think a painting is “finished,” I let it rest for a few days, and occasionally it will let me know that there is more to the story. If any of these paintings speak to you, let me know, I would be honored to have them grace your home.

About the Artist: The artful journey began for me over 30 years ago after much consistent persuasion from my mother (who was also an artist!). I can truthfully say that every year since that time has been a better year for art and having a show at Revolution Mill is proof of that for 2026!

This is my most ambitious year of art with solo exhibits, festivals and shows — and it’s all about honoring my mother (Kay Ballard) who passed in October 2025. Thanks for being a part of that journey.