PRESS RELEASE
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Join us for the Opening Reception on January 9th from 5-8 p.m. Sales will open at 5:00 in the gallery.
New Works by an Old Master
When Harold Balazs graduated from Washington State University in 1951, his new career was just getting underway, as he flung open the door to an artistic adventure that would occupy him for 63+ years. The escapade has made him one of the most iconic artists of the Pacific Northwest – known best for his large-scale metal sculptures and concrete reliefs, in addition to thousands of altars, stained glass windows, paintings and enamels.
His show ‘Old & New’ includes spectacular new pieces, along with some of the old. The exhibition opening at The Art Spirit Gallery showcases over 80 works including paintings, enamels, drawings, relief sculptures and stencils (some used for over 30+ years).
For the past 18 years of this adventure, The Art Spirit Gallery has had the honor of representing Balazs and showing over 850 of his original works. In recent years he indicated he may not be able to produce new work, due to his pacemaker and a tremor in his hand. Gibbs was concerned about what Balazs would be able to come up with for the upcoming show. Once again, the explorer delivered his distinctive legacy of wonder! Gibbs stood both excited and surprised gazing upon over 25 new enamels, numerous stencils, and other pieces. “Harold, you never cease to amaze me!” says Gibbs. “This is more than I could have imagined!” You see Balazs has a desire to create wonder even at 86, because he is old school as a ‘maker’ of things. “I work every day, because making stuff is better than not making stuff,” says Balazs.
Just then, Rosemary Balazs leans over and whispers in Gibbs ear “you’ve given him a whole new purpose and drive. He is energized once again!” Harold leans back and smiles.
Harold has the skill and technique of a seasoned master, and continues to use it to create new and wonderful artwork.
*Everyone is welcome to an informal talk by Harold on Saturday, January 10th, beginning at 1:00 in the gallery.
This show is sponsored by Hotel Ruby, Ruby2 (Spokane’s downtown boutiques), and Hotel Ruby Ponderay at the base of Schweitzer. View them online at www.rubyhospitality.com. We thank them for their continued support of the arts in our region.
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