The studio is both my sanctuary and my playground—a place where I lose myself in the act of creating and, at the same time, discover deeper truths about who I am. Through mixed media, painting, and drawing, I translate emotions and experiences into visual language, using layers, textures, and symbols to communicate what words often cannot.

At the heart of my work is the theme of connection and protection—two universal needs that resonate across cultures and generations. Protection, in particular, is central to survival. It comes from forces greater than ourselves, from the strength we cultivate within, and from the community that surrounds and uplifts us.

I am especially drawn to the Nazar, or mati in Greek—a centuries-old amulet believed to ward off the “evil eye.” I weave this universal symbol throughout my work, pairing it with the raw symbolism of wildlife and nature. Together, these elements reflect the delicate balance between vulnerability and strength, fragility and resilience, isolation and belonging. Each piece is not just an image, but an exploration of what it means to be protected, connected, and ultimately, human.

See more of my work on Instagram: @nerissaballandart