about
Emma Ballou is a fine artist whose work is often inspired by the ethereal beauty of dawn and dusk. In response to the philosophical belief that light cannot exist without darkness, and that the moments on the cusp of change—when night turns into day or day into night—are often the most beautiful.
Primarily working in oils and acrylics, Ballou finds that these mediums capture the soft, luminescent quality that she is attracted to in landscapes. Her connection to trees is particularly profound, stemming from her childhood in rural Maine, where she formed deep bonds with the natural world around her. Because she was an only child trees were her companions, and this early connection informs her artistic focus, as she continues to immerse herself in the details of the natural world.
Ballou’s ethereal and moody paintings are also influenced by her poor eyesight. This unique perspective on the world is more about feeling than seeing. Her work often suggests landscapes rather than explicitly depicting them, inviting viewers to engage their imaginations and complete the scene themselves leaving room for interpretation and personal connection.
Ballou's studio is located in a converted animal barn on her 10-acre homestead in Maine, where she lives with her partner and their array of animals. The natural beauty that surrounds their home from the tall pines to the lively meadows, deeply influences her work. The ever-changing seasons and rugged landscape provide endless inspiration, fostering a prolific painting environment.
Emma Ballou’s artwork is held in private collections across the country. Her paintings capture the serene yet dramatic beauty of nature’s landscapes, offering viewers a glimpse into a world where light and darkness coexist in perfect harmony.