Many artists have found inspiration in the tapestries of the beautiful and tortured South. Though born in upstate New York, Georgia artist Sam Balling was drawn by the diverse narratives and lush ecosystems of South Georgia, and they became the chief subjects in his works. His most recent exhibition, “Death & BBQ,” is a precipitation of a year’s worth of experiences in the Okefenokee. For 365 days, Balling deeply immersed himself in the region’s people and places. Balling says of the journey, “Every day brings new experiences. Sights, sounds, literature, history, conversations at gas stations. Each moment informs my work. The unifying theme of these pieces is an underbelly of change, loss, redemption and rebirth. Things the soil remembers. Things wrapped in the sweet smoke scent of barbecue.” A year distilled into Southern gothic still lifes, side-show attractions, using maps as canvases for portraits of people striving for a better life. The gallery will be open for Third Thursday on Aug. 18, and private appointments to view the exhibition can be requested by emailing [email protected] through August.
WHO: Sam Balling’s “Death & BBQ”
WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 18, 6–9 p.m.
WHERE: tiny ATH gallery
HOW MUCH: FREE!
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