My artwork is personal and a true representation of me: a Gen-Xer from West Virginia. Whether it’s pop-culture references in my embroidered sketches, fine details in thread-painted West Virginia landscapes, or boho-vibes reflected in crocheted purses and wall hangings with fringe for days, everything I create sparks personal joy. It is my hope that it will spark the same amount of joy in you and that you’ll see yourself in my art.
Art forms
What I Do
Thread painting
One-of-a-kind thread-painted landscapes are my way of celebrating the beauty and wonder of God’s creation, especially that of Wild, Wonderful, West Virginia. Thread-painted portraits capture a moment in time and hopefully become a treasured family heirloom.
Sketches
Often inspired by pop-culture, embroidered sketches are my way of putting a modern twist on a classic art-form. Whether it’s a movie quote, a bit of sarcasm, or an homage to the heroes of my life, sketches are some of my favorite things to design and create.
Crochet
My crocheted bags, wall hangings, and accessories are for the bohemian girl. I love to update the classic granny square with bold colors and modern shapes, and celebrate the hippy in all of us. Each piece is designed to be an expression of the woman who owns it.
Upcycled Fashion
While I’ve always enjoyed thrifting and shopping secondhand, it was after watching a documentary about the social, economic, and environmental impact of fast fashion that I truly dedicated myself to creating and promoting upcycled fashion. Using both embroidery and crochet techniques, I absolutely love giving a piece of clothing new life and creating something that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Upcoming Events
Jan. 17-March 16 – Women of Appalachia Project Fine Art exhibit, Dairy Barn Arts Center, Athens, OH
March 1-31 – 62nd Annual Woodlawn Needlework Show, Woodlawn and Pope-Leighey House, Alexandria, VA
Custom Orders
I’m now accepting a limited number of custom orders and commissions, including wedding and family portraits. Please email me at TTPFIBERARTS@gmail.com to discuss your idea or request a quote.
Meet the Artist
Hi! I’m Jelise Ballon and I’m the face (and hands) behind That’s the Point Fiber Arts. I live in Hampshire County, WV with my husband and 4 dogs. We also have three grown children. I specialize in crocheted and hand-embroidered wearable and fine art pieces, with an emphasis on sustainability through upcycling clothing and using recycled materials.
I love creating my own designs as a way to modernize these timeless handcrafts and make something fresh and unexpected, often with a humorous edge. I first tried my hand at embroidery as a child when my grandmother taught me how to make a French knot, but didn’t pick it up again until 35 years later when I discovered the beauty of thread painting and sketching. I’ve been crocheting for nearly two decades and, like most fiber artists, have a bit of a yarn obsession.
My work has been featured in several art galleries throughout West Virginia, including The River House, Two/Two/Eight, and Southside Studios.
I’m also an Instructional Designer, author, and teacher working in higher-education, as well as the teaching elder at Living Waters of Capon Bridge church and outreach center.
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That's the Point Fiber Arts 