I'm a visual storyteller who uses spiritual symbols and ancient text to communicate universal themes about self-love, acceptance, and personal identity. I work with mixed media, painting, drawing to communicate and express myself."
The Mati Series (mati is the Greek translation for the word eye)
Connection and protection are socially, emotionally, and culturally at an all-time focus nationally and internationally. My work visually addresses the meaning of protection as an essential need for survival. Along with the idea that protection can come from something larger than man-kind as well as from within ourselves. All work explores the usage of the universal symbol of the Nazar, an eye-shaped amulet believed to ward off the "evil eye." This symbol is said to bring good luck and protect you from any ill-will that could otherwise harm your well-being.
The Empath Series
Created from a hamsa hand silhouette and represents characters that portray themes and symbols fundamentally inspired by the Tanakh or otherwise known as the Pentateuch. Each canvas is wrapped with handwritten text from the hamsa prayer on the sides. The hamsa prayer states, "Let no sadness come to this heart. Let no trouble come to these arms. Let no conflict come to these eyes. Let my soul be filled with the blessing of joy and peace." I use this prayer as a ritual when completing each piece. It's not meant to be read, it's just intentionally meant to exist in harmony with each piece.
The Mati Series 1
I Know Where You Live
Likeness II
Long Division
Likeness I
The Officiant
Life of Hei
The Looker
Jewish Meaning
Tel. 917-617-5956 I
nerissa@nerissaballand.art
© 2020 Nerissa Balland Art LLC