Episode 09 | Larry Ballard: Carving a Path from Chicago to the Vatican

Join Matt Ledbetter and Mike Smith for an in-depth conversation with Larry Ballard, an 86-year-old master carver from Chicago, whose incredible journey has taken his folk art all the way to the Vatican. In this episode, we explore Larry’s remarkable career, from his early days carving in grammar school to his detailed wooden sculptures and unique robot creations made from recycled computer parts. Chapters: 00:00:00 - 00:00:20: Introduction to Larry Ballard 00:00:21 - 00:01:15: Dating and Detailing the Art 00:01:48 - 00:02:32: Larry’s Early Days and Inspirations 00:02:32 - 00:03:28: Robots and Recycling in Art 00:03:28 - 00:04:06: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Art 00:04:06 - 00:05:28: Unique Materials and Techniques 00:05:28 - 00:07:17: Family and International Reach 00:07:17 - 00:09:38: Notable Works and Collaborations, including the Vatican Piece 00:09:38 - 00:10:06: Larry’s Legacy and the Future of His Art 00:10:06 - 00:11:09: Connecting with Other Artists 00:11:09 - 00:12:02: The Auction and Beyond We hope you enjoy this episode and gain a deeper appreciation for Larry Ballard’s work and legacy. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!