Ivo Balinov

If one tried to describe Ivo's work it would probably be seen as somewhere on the borderlines between impressionism, expressionism and abstraction with the generous splash of nativism that could be expected from a self-taught artist. He himself prefers to believe that art is one, just like some musicians he admires would say that music is one, and does not worry much about finding the right label.

Ivo grew up with art around him but art took its time finding him. Members of his family were or are wood sculptors, art collectors, painters, cameramen and filmmakers. They all inspire him in some way. He sketched spontaneously from an early age but life took him in a different direction. It was not until many years later that he eventually grabbed a palette knife and tried laying some paint on a canvas. He has not stopped since.

Inspiration comes from various angles. Ivo's work and visits to over 35 countries on four continents, his lifetime passion for the outdoors, fly fishing and the sea, the artwork and music of others, the people he meets, all influence his art. Ideas come to his mind at any time and tend to mature for weeks, sometimes months before he is ready to paint. And then often go through yet another metamorphosis…
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