I’m Nour Ballout, I was born in Beirut in 1993. I identify as a Virgo Plant Daddy, everything else, such as my interdisciplinary practice as an artist and curator are just things I do. I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Wayne State University and am currently an MFA candidate at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC).
Tell us about how you got involved in the “Talking Hearts” project.
UMS reached out to me to work on the project and I had the honor of working with great artists to develop the project.
What do “Heart Maps” mean to you?
Finding connections between what happens to us and how these events affect us. A heart map to me deconstructs what a map can be.
How has the project evolved in your opinion, and how has your role evolved with it?
It went from an idea to a full on movement.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I can be a bit of a drama queen, but I truly believe that all my feelings no matter how dramatic are justified.
What would be your ideal way to spend a rainy day?
In the house, under a blanket cleaning up my house, or reorganizing my plants.
What does ‘community’ mean to you? How has this changed?
The people that impact me, and are impacted by me.
What does ‘art’ mean to you?
Art can be anything, I think its something that’s mysterious so it can be gate kept. If you make something it can be art. Caring for my plants is part of my creative outlet. So, they are art.
Any social media handles/personal websites where our viewers can follow you?
Instagram: @NOURABALLOUT
Websites:
Featured Image Credit: Mark Gjukich
A Travel Guide For Talking Hearts 