By Chris Fischer
Redfield artist Piper Ballou’s work was celebrated at an art show open house on Sunday, Sept. 22nd. Roughly 40 to 50 people wandered through the show, which was held at the artist’s home.
Ballou, familiarly known as Pi, said that she had always been an artist. Several of her pieces were on display throughout the house. There were oils, acrylics, and pastels. She even had a couple of scratch pieces. Ballou explained that scratch art was labor intensive, because every little line had to be carefully scraped. Many of the pieces were made using paintbrushes, but some were made with palette knives or with pastels.
Ballou stayed busy greeting guest and taking time to explain a bit about her works and the process involved in making each. Visitors marveled at the works of art on display. Comments such as “She did a good job.” and “They’re beautiful!” were heard. The pieces, many of which were in vibrant colors, had some variance in style. Nature and animals were represented in the majority of the artwork.
A special feature was a koi pond in the backyard. Ballou had drawn out a design and carefully painted it on paving stones. She finished it so the painted piece would last outdoors. The pavers were placed in the garden, and surrounded by landscaping rocks. It blended in with the serene backyard garden space at the home.

Godson Michael Clarke said “It always feels like I’m seeing what Piper is seeing.” He noted that she seemed to take inspiration from her surroundings. “When they lived in Arizona, I saw her paint saguaro cactuses. Wherever she lives, she tend to paint what she sees, like the environment.”
When asked about her artistic inspiration, Ballou said “I like color.” She added “The ability to, you know, once you get started with something, you get so caught up in it and you lose track of time. That’s probably the thing I enjoy the most when I’m painting.”
They moved from Arizona a couple of years ago. Ballou said that her grandfather had homesteaded near Aberdeen. She had a brother who was still in the area. They came up to help him out, and ended up staying. Scott found work in broadcasting, and Ballou started a business at Wild Roots and focused on art.
Ballou and her husband Alan Scott used to teach at the same school. She said “I taught a lot using art, when I led my lessons and things.” Both lamented that when budged cuts are to be made, the first things to go are music and art programs.
Pi Ballou showed a fondness for teaching. She used to do more painting parties, and she has a place in Wild Roots Marketplace. She stated a desire to focus on her own art.
She said that everyone could be an artist. Teaching art wasn’t something she found to be difficult. “They already have a desire because they’re there. Then I just walk ‘em step by step, little steps. And then they say ‘Oh, this is not good.’ Then you take the painting and step away from it. Then they’re like ‘Oh, well, that’s pretty good.’”
Ballou said that people who say “I’m not an artist” are her favorite people. “Then you say ‘Well, you are. You just have to find it within yourself.’” She explained that the key was to start small, learn the basics, and gradually advance in art practice. She would always be teaching. She said that she’d had a lot of 4-H kids painting with her lately. “The 4-H kids, they didn’t realize I was talking in their ear the whole entire time.” She subtly guided them through the process. “I would teach them different brushes, and I would say ‘Pick up the round one.’” Ballou said that she too was learning and growing in her art practice.

Art was long an important part of Ballou’s life. “Art actually feeds my soul.” she said. “It’s part of who I am. If I go too long without painting, I’m missing something. And I really enjoy sharing it with everybody else.”
A few more comments were shared. One person said “I was an artist before attending her party, but she just added to it.” Another guest echoed a common feeling: “I’m not very artistic at all, so I totally respect anyone that can do that.” More compliments such as “It’s beautiful.” And “She’s amazing.” could be heard amongst the guests. Ballou said that she planned to make the art open house a yearly event.