First Friday Art Walk – July 2021

Discover Art Downtown at our Artist Reception at NexLynx Gallery of Arts, Friday July 2nd from 5pm to 8pm. View the painting exhibit, “Variations VI” of returning artist, Edward Balda, during our First Friday Art Walk.

Edward Balda is an art educator and accomplished artist in the Topeka area, known for his creativity, distinctive style and thought-provoking subject matter. During his childhood, his family moved often; living in Kansas, California, Ecuador and Germany. Always fond of drawing, he became increasingly interested in art as a high school student in Santa Monica, California. It was there, as well as in college that he was introduced to painting.

Influenced by British painter, J.M.W. Turner, Edward’s palette consists of thin luminescent layers, void of details, yet evoking sensory clues to present perhaps a mysterious timeless landscape. His subject matter explores memories of his travels to Europe and Ecuador, where he maintains secondary citizenship.
When Edward paints, he is constantly challenged to bring his mental vision into focus. Many of his works are rather personal, not pretty pictures. They may be perceived as more mental rather than representational.

Edward has participated in various exhibitions and competitions locally as well as nationally. His work is part of collections on both coasts as well as in Ecuador. In addition to painting exhibits, Edward has accomplished recognitions in the field of printmaking and ceramics. He currently teaches Fine Arts at Hayden Catholic High School.