Discover the Bold and Subversive World of Sara Ballad’s Art at First Friday

Sarah Ballard (AKA Hippie Steve's) has been working for the past year to adapt her eye-catching digital sticker designs into intricate, hand-painted, wooden cutouts.

Her designs are rooted in pop culture, vintage nostalgia and classic Americana influences. "Member's Only" is her first solo exhibit at Blo back Gallery featuring a complete collection of her woodcuts along with 12 unseen new pieces.

Discover the Bold and Subversive World of Sara Ballad’s Art at First Friday 

This month’s First Friday Art Opening showcases the vibrant, thought-provoking work of Sara Ballad, whose latest collection brings together a striking blend of pop culture references, surreal imagery, and a dash of the macabre. From a stylized skeleton wearing an “OBEY” badge to horned demons with wide, hypnotic eyes, Ballad’s art demands attention and sparks conversation. 

Get excited—here’s an exclusive sneak peek at a few jaw-dropping pieces from Sara Ballad that are sure to blow you away! 

A Satirical Spin on Authority  One of the standout pieces features a skull adorned with a police cap that reads “OBEY,” instantly conjuring a mix of humor and social commentary. The bold colors and exaggerated features hint at themes of control and subversion, challenging viewers to question the power structures we often take for granted. 

Playful Demons and Duality 

 Another work showcases a playful, almost cartoonish demon cradling a figure, its large eyes reflecting both curiosity and mischief. Through saturated reds and a fluid, swirling composition, Ballad captures the tension between the monstrous and the human. It’s a reminder that sometimes what appears frightening might also be strangely endearing—and vice versa. 

 Rounding out the collection is a vividly colored demon face with flaming horns and mesmerizing patterns. Bold lines and neon gradients evoke a psychedelic vibe, pulling the viewer into a world where the boundaries of reality and fantasy dissolve. It’s this balance of vibrancy and darkness that defines Ballad’s artistic signature. 

Meet the Artist and Dive Deeper 

 Join us for the First Friday Art Opening to explore Sara Ballad’s rebellious universe up close. Chat with the artist about her inspirations—ranging from classic horror films to underground comix—and learn how she breathes life into her surreal characters. Whether you’re a long-time fan of edgy, iconoclastic art or simply curious about the stories behind these wild creations, you’ll find plenty to admire and discuss. 

Mark your calendar and step into a realm of riotous color and daring commentary. Sara Ballad’s art is equal parts playful and provocative—an unforgettable visual feast that dares you to look closer and question the world around you. 

First Friday 4/4 , 6 to 9 PM

Blo Back Gallery

131 Spring St

Pueblo CO 81003