First Friday Art Walk – June 2024

Edw. Balda is an art educator and accomplished artist in the Topeka area since 1970, known for his creativity, distinctive style and thought-provoking subject matter. He currently teaches Fine Arts at Hayden Catholic High School, specializing in Jewelry making, Ceramics, and Art History.

During his childhood, Edw.’s 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 and art history.

Influenced by British painter, J.M.W. Turner, Edw.’s style consists of avoiding hard edges; preferring soft luminescent layers and ambiguous forms that at times might suggest waves or mountains. His interests to dramatic events in nature such as storms, volcanos, sunsets, or fog presents a sense of mystery, inviting the viewer to interpret what they see. His work is often linked to memories and experiences of his travels to Ecuador, where he maintains secondary citizenship.

Edw. 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, he has accomplished recognitions in the field of printmaking and ceramics.

Artist Image Gallery