This week and the coming one, I’ve been tasked with passing on the art of a different kind of painting.
A method of painting that I learned through my late grandfather; Ken Ball.
Ken Ball was known for many things but perhaps none better than his construction work.
There are a few main principals my grandfather worked off of and they showed through in the sheer quality of what you got when you paid Ken Ball to come fix, paint or add on to your home.
#1. When is it appropriate to use tape while painting?
Never. You will take all of the care you possibly can on your first and second coat. Using tape to keep a straight line was seen by my grandfather as a shortcut and a means of being hasty towards the job you were doing. The straightest lines and cleanest jobs come from taking care and valuing effectiveness over efficiency.
#2. When will I get a break?
In due time and it’s going to be awesome. Break time as a painter on Ken Ball’s watch meant you were expected to come sit for your break, be victim of a crude joke and then eat as much of his food as you were humanly able. Ken Ball carried a huge lunchbox but only because he looked forward to sharing.
#3. We’re done, what’s next?
Clean your crap up. Your word and your work are only as good as they will be tomorrow. Cleaning up and making sure your instruments were clean for the next days proceedings are vital in any good work. This was how Ken Ball made sure each client received the same quality job… although his employees might have hated it!!!
It is an honor to pass these teachings on and with every grunt from the kids, I know they grow one step closer to understanding “The Ken Ball Method”. When our work is finished, I’ll post some photos and hopefully invite you all to come admire it with us!
More to come soon,
-Ethan-
I think what stands out for me apart from the quality of work Ken put in is his understanding of service, his clients were like familly that he took care of often at times when it was inconvenient for him to do so. It was always about much more than getting your house painted. Bless his heart.
stansje