The Pin-up Files

Paul John Ballard pin-up artist

b.1960

"I don't have a muse, I like to paint and draw as many beautiful women as possible"


"To capture a woman's image I like to do a few good sketches. This way I feel as if I am getting to know her, and her personality starts to come through in the drawing or painting. You can see any happiness or any pain around her eyes. Her stance and the way she poses also tell her story, and contribute to the picture."

Paul John Ballard

Paul John Ballard was born in London in 1960. After a short spell in the army, he studied for a City and Guilds in electrical engineering and then spent 12 years in the construction industry.

He was hired by Elstree Studios after showing a portfolio of his art, and progressed to painting backdrops and sets for Glyndebourne Opera and the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden. He has painted murals and reproductions of Old Masters for clubs, pubs, wine bars and restaurants, but spend most of his time now on erotic commissions.

I love being able to capture what I see - it gives me a great feeling of achievement ... now add a beautiful woman to this ability, and you have a fantastic combination

John Paul Ballard

"You may wonder and marvel at crystal clear lakes, majestic mountains, panoramic vistas - all of nature's beauty. But to me the most breathtaking views are of a beautiful woman. Try to imagine a sleek aerodynamic car, with all the latest features and a performance that is top level. This is nothing compared to a woman.

"Reflecting the subject's personality in the artwork makes her more real and gives the artwork more depth and interest. I always try to make my artwork sexy - to make the viewer lust for the model"

In 2007 he was voted 'Best Erotic Artist' by Scarlet magazine and was presented with the award at a prestigious ceremony in London. His work has since been featured in numerous magazines across the world and in national newspapers as well: "It's a great feeling to see my work in print and know it is being appreciated. It is also a realisation of how far my work has brought me."

All images in this gallery are copyright © Paul John Ballard. All rights reserved.


Go to The Art of Paul John Ballard.

The Art of Paul John Ballard