Trace lives on Djaara Country, South Eastern Australia. Her ancestors come from Hungary, England and France - from them she has inherited a love of dance and artistic creativity. Trace loves to rise at dawn, especially in late winter when it’s frosty, and walk up hills above the fog line to marvel at the dawn light and early spring flowers. She creates graphic novels and children’s books about connecting with Country and community. A self-described ‘story catcher,’ she finds inspiration in nature and incorporates local plant and animal species into her detailed, cartoon-style drawings.
a new graphic novel coming out March 2026
Treeshape Trace Balla
An extraordinary, inspiring and hope-filled graphic novel from the multi-award-winning creator of Rivertime, Rockhopping, Landing with Wings and Leaf-light, Trace Balla's stunning memoir reveals her personal and life-changing experiences of place, her understanding of the natural world and her relationship to Country.
description…
Ever since I was a kid my favourite place has always been up a tree – where everything I notice feels like a part of me. Every birdsong, every leaf's light, every butterfly's dance . . .
This beautiful book tells the story of young Trace's awakening to the preciousness of the environment, including her participation in the protests against uranium mining at Jabiluka in the 1980s. Channelling her gift for visual storytelling, Trace reveals emotional truths, shares her commitment to environmental activism, highlights trees that have been meaningful in her life, and explores her deep appreciation of place and connection with First Nations peoples.
With its delicate artwork, heartfelt storytelling and timely themes of compassion and environmental care, this graphic novel will resonate with readers of all ages.
'Treeshape is brimming with humanity and bursting with the wholesome imagery and folk wisdom that magnify the small details of life - a generous act of love from a rare Australian artist.' - Shane Howard, singer/songwriter, Goanna
My Garden Path
watch the episode by clicking the image
Trace has worked and volunteered alongside Nalderun Aboriginal Education Corporation for several years, writes song lyrics, appears as an inspirational speaker and workshop facilitator, particularly inspiring cartooning, pre-literacy for kids by mixing words with pictures and stories, and nature journaling.
What has Trace been up to lately?…
News, events, latest projects and heaps more…
