Lavett Ballard Transforms Former Chemistry Lab into Studio in Willingboro

Artist and Barbie curator Lavett Ballard works in a 1,200-square-foot former chemistry lab in Willingboro, New Jersey, located in a high school-turned-community center. She has used the space for eight years, typically working four to five days a week from 11am to 9pm. Her practice involves sanding, staining, and scorching reclaimed wood, as well as research and paper cutting. The studio features tall windows overlooking a community garden, chalkboards, sinks, and stone countertops. Ballard serves as the township's artist-in-residence and curates three to five exhibitions annually in the building's lobby gallery. She is about 30 minutes from Philadelphia and frequently engages with the local art scene. Her favorite museums include the Colored Girls Museum in Germantown, the Brooklyn Museum, and The Met. Wood is her preferred material.