For artist Jennifer Ballinger, painting is more than a creative pursuit; it is part of her identity, which is shaped by a lifelong passion for bold expression. As the founder of Jennifer Ballinger Art, she specializes in large-scale acrylic statement pieces that captivate audiences with vibrant color, intense detail, and unique textural elements. 

Born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas, Jennifer’s artistic journey was influenced at an early age by her father, Jerry Ballinger, a professional artist and fashion illustrator for Dillard’s and the Arkansas Gazette. She often sat by his side, watching in awe as he effortlessly sketched figures, animals, and characters from memory. His raw talent and love for drawing inspired her to follow in his footsteps. 

As a child, Jennifer honed her skills using Prisma Color pencils that her father handed down to her from his advertising job. She meticulously recreated images from magazines, developing a keen eye for proportion, shading, and realism. Over time, this early practice laid the foundation for her distinctive artistic style.

Her journey took her from Arkansas to South Louisiana, where she immersed herself in the Cajun culture while building a career in the mobile phone industry. One of her first professional art projects was an illustration of Clint Eastwood holding a phone instead of a gun, accompanied by the phrase, "Go ahead, make my day... change your area code." The design was widely embraced and printed on shirts distributed throughout Baton Rouge. 

After five years in Louisiana, she ventured to Seattle, Washington, where she explored new artistic techniques through coursework at the University of Washington. Although she appreciated the artistic energy of the Pacific Northwest, Jennifer missed the warmth of the South and eventually returned to Arkansas. 

Ballinger’s artwork is recognized for its large-scale acrylic compositions, often featuring bold, bright colors, reflective foil accents, and intricate relief elements. Her innovative approach includes the use of unconventional materials, such as fox fur from a Fletcher Bensky fur coat, to add depth and texture. 

She is particularly drawn to portraiture, believing that faces evoke emotion, curiosity, and connection in a way that other subjects do not. Observing the reactions of viewers as they engage with her work is one of the most rewarding aspects of her career. 

Her artistic evolution took a pivotal turn in 2004 when she transitioned from drawing to painting on a 48x60 canvas. The larger scale allowed her to bring vivid detail and dynamic energy to her compositions, a hallmark that continues to define her work today. While she has studied art at UALR and the University of Washington, she attributes much of her success to self-practice and experimentation. 

Beyond her own artistic achievements, Jennifer is committed to using her talent to support meaningful causes. She has donated artwork to various charities, including: 

• Women’s Own Worth (WOW) – Supporting survivors of domestic violence 

• Evolve Gala – Benefiting The Centers for Youth and Families Foundation 

• Art & Soul – Supporting Easter Seals 

• Children’s Advocacy Centers of Arkansas 

Jennifer’s creative space is as inspiring as the art she produces. Her home in West Chenal, Arkansas, offers a panoramic view of the golf course, which serves as a constant source of inspiration. The oversized kitchen, another one of her creative havens, allows her to explore her passion for cooking, an art form in its own right. 

She shares her home with her partner, Andy Smith, a seasoned investment broker and competitive pickleball player, and their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Major Louie Kensington Christian Smith I. The couple enjoys the amenities of Chenal Country Club, where they frequently golf, swim, dine, exercise, and play pickleball. They also take advantage of the nearby natural escapes at Wildwood Park, Ranch Woods Nature Preserve, and Pinnacle Mountain, enjoying countless hours outdoors with their active and adventurous dog, Major. 

Jennifer’s work is more than a visual experience, it is an invitation to feel, engage, and be inspired. Her striking use of color, dynamic textures, and deeply expressive subjects make each piece a statement of bold artistic vision. 

A few of her pieces are available at Jagr Jane Design in Little Rock, on her website, www.jenniferballingerart.com, or through her social media platforms on Instagram and Facebook.