Episode 09 | Larry Ballard: Carving a Path from Chicago to the Vatican
Join Matt Ledbetter and Mike Smith for an in-depth conversation with Larry Ballard, an 86-year-old master carver from Chicago, whose incredible journey has taken his folk art all the way to the Vatican. In this episode, we explore Larry’s remarkable career, from his early days carving in grammar school to his detailed wooden sculptures and unique robot creations made from recycled computer parts.
Introduction to Larry Ballard
00:00:00 - 00:00:20
The episode begins with Matt introducing Larry Ballard, an 86-year-old folk artist from Chicago. Larry’s personal collection of carvings, some dating back to 1996, is featured. Matt shares the exciting news that Larry will be joining the podcast via phone to discuss his journey and artwork.
Dating and Detailing the Art
00:00:21 - 00:01:15
Matt highlights the significance of dated carvings, noting that it eliminates the guesswork about when a piece was created. He admires the intricate details in Larry’s carvings, especially the lifelike depiction of animal fur using nails. One standout piece, dated 1893, showcases Larry’s meticulous craftsmanship.
Larry’s Early Days and Inspirations
00:01:48 - 00:02:32
Larry shares his beginnings, starting as a child carving in grammar school and later creating sculptures from wire and found objects in Chicago. He recounts his experience with a dishonest art dealer, illustrating the challenges he faced in the art world.
Robots and Recycling in Art
00:02:32 - 00:03:28
Larry talks about his inspiration for creating robot sculptures from old computer parts, reflecting on the rapid technological changes in the world. He explains his process of sourcing materials from flea markets and enjoying the creative freedom that comes with recycling and repurposing objects.
The Physical and Mental Benefits of Art
00:03:28 - 00:04:06
Larry discusses how creating art has been mentally and physically beneficial for him, keeping his mind active and body fit. He shares his dedication to perfection, often reworking pieces until they met his high standards.
Unique Materials and Techniques
00:04:06 - 00:05:28
Larry details the various materials he uses, such as fence posts and sumac trees, sourced from local lumber yards and railroad tracks. He describes his techniques, including the use of chisels, power tools, and different types of files to achieve the smooth finishes on his carvings.
Family and International Reach
00:05:28 - 00:07:17
Larry reflects on how his art has been shared within his family and sold internationally, particularly in Germany and Switzerland. Despite not focusing on commercial success, his works have found homes across the globe, facilitated by art dealers who appreciated his unique talent.
Notable Works and Collaborations
00:07:17 - 00:09:38
Matt and Larry discuss some of Larry’s notable works, including a piece in the Vatican and a wall hanging for Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Larry explains his motivation behind these powerful pieces and shares stories about their creation and significance.
Larry’s Legacy and the Future of His Art
00:09:38 - 00:10:06
Larry talks about his extensive collection and expresses his hope that his works will continue to be appreciated and preserved. Matt emphasizes the importance of knowing the artist behind the pieces, making the art more meaningful to collectors.
Connecting with Other Artists
00:10:06 - 00:11:09
Larry reminisces about his interactions with other folk artists, including the late SL Jones. He shares stories of their meetings and the inspiration he drew from their works and personalities.
The Auction and Beyond
00:11:09 - 00:12:02
Matt announces the upcoming auction featuring around 100 pieces of Larry’s art. He encourages listeners to tune in and appreciate the background and stories behind each piece, making the auction a special event for collectors and fans alike.
We hope you enjoyed this recap of our latest episode. Stay tuned for more stories and insights from the world of folk art on the House of Folk Art podcast.