Will James: Images of Assisi & other works by Mark Balma

Sunday, November 27, 2011

Images of Assisi & other works by Mark Balma

Mark Balma is currently creating paintings in an early renaissance technique pioneered by Leonardo da Vinci. The oil paintings are composed of many layers of hand-ground paint superimposed upon each other with small brush strokes in a secret essential oil and resin mixture. The result is an exceptional depth and richness of color that complements the soul and character of the painting. Balma also creates works in tempera, watercolor, and fresco. His mastery of drawing is expressed in etchings, stone lithography, and drawings in pencil, ink, and red chalk. His portraiture includes children, adults, family groups, and official portraits for business and government. Considered a metaphysical realist, he paints beyond the reality of the subject toward the spiritual. Born in Wichita, Kansas in 1957, Balma studied in the academy tradition at Atelier Lack in Minneapolis before moving to Italy at age 19 to continue his studies with Maestro Pietro Annigoni in Florence. He has maintained studios in Italy, London, and Minnesota. His works have been exhibited in Europe and America and are held in both private and public collections.

"Faith is taking the first step even when you cannot see the whole staircase"

Martin Luther King Jr.

Images of Assisi

These stone etchings are printed by hand in small editions, signed and numbered by the artist. Each of these images were carefully studied directly in Assisi by Mark Balma, capturing the subtle spirit of the Franciscan message. Complete set of the three stone lithographs $3,000 (only a few sets remaining)

Mark and I first became friends in junior high school (together we started a Rock & Roll band). As Mark developed as an artist, I became interested in poetry and art history. I was lucky to continue my study of art history in Rome, Italy at the age of 19.

If you would like to purchase a set of these lithographs, send me an email at billybluejay@gmail.com and I will be happy to get you in touch directly with Mark Balma.

Thanks, Will James