Edward, From Remorse to Redemption

Artist: Ball, Moses X b.1977

Date: 2023

Medium: Acrylic and oil paint on aluminum composite

Artwork Dimensions: 48 x 36 in.

County Department: Public Defender

Artwork Site: Hall of Records - Office of the Public Defender

Supervisorial District: 1

Current Status: On view

About the Artwork: In this artwork, the struggles faced by those within the justice system are seen through the lens of Edward, a bright student and gifted athlete who was charged with a felony and faced years in prison. His determination to seek justice is depicted by the Sankofa symbol, a powerful Ghanaian adinkra that signifies looking back to move forward. The running shoes represent Edward's dedication to achieving his goals despite his challenges: when Edward discovered that he and his Public Defender were both competing in the same triathlon, running helped transform his feelings of anger into trust and camaraderie, it became his source of strength. In the painting, the sunset, which may hint at dark times ahead, is illuminated by the light from a dove, symbolizing inner peace and freedom. A candle motif shines on Edward's reflections about his experience: "The courthouse...It's not the end in many ways, it was my beginning. There's a light at the end of darkness. A candle is my symbol; it signifies light."

About the Artist: Moses Ball strives to create impactful large-scale murals and mosaics as well as personal fine art works which tell the story of community heroes, activists and everyday folks. He creates images which are themed around social justice and the spiritual, highlighting the heroism and power of those who are ignored or marginalized. He recently worked with Metro and LA Commons to create the Heart of Hyde Park Mural on US Bank at Crenshaw Blvd and Slauson Ave- this mural is of particular importance to South LA as it depicts community activists, local business owners as well as neighborhood youth. His most recent works were two large scale murals/mosaics for the Nike Community Store in Watts, featuring Watts Activist Sweet Alice Harris and local youth athletes and special needs youth athletes. His latest Mural/Mosaic was for the Youth Justice Coalition in South Central Los Angeles, and his latest mural was for the University of Florida's Institute of Black Institute of Culture. Ball was recently selected as one of the Los Angeles Lakers "In the Paint" inaugural class of artists and is currently working on a large public artwork for the UCLA/Westwood Metro L.A. station.