curated by: Nadia Rovderová, Helena Staub

Paul Balev – The Artistic Resilience of an Amazing Life
Paul Balev, born in 1939 in Kiev, now 84 years old, embodies a life steeped in unique experiences and inexhaustible creativity. His tumultuous journey began during a dark period when he was forced to leave his hometown due to the German invasion of Ukraine. With his architect parents by his side, he found refuge in Germany, where they survived through their perseverance and ingenuity.In 1955, Paul Balev and his parents started anew by moving to New York City. In the metropolis that never sleeps, his talents as an architect flourished through a series of remarkable architectural projects, though his name often remained in the shadows. The indelible imprint he left on the New York City skyline is a testament to his quiet but significant contribution to the architectural scene.Paul Balev’s soul, however, is not limited to functional design and structure. He secretly cultivated a passion for painting, channeling his emotions and experiences into vibrant and expressive canvases. Today, after years of quiet devotion to art, Paul Balev is ready to share his inner world with the public. An exceptional exhibition of his paintings will take place at ARTINBOX Gallery in Prague, offering a rare opportunity to discover the very essence of his artistic expression.Deeply influenced by his personal story and his resilience in the face of adversity, Paul Balev’s works are an invitation to explore the complexity of human emotions through the palette of a visionary artist. Each painting tells a unique story, a fragment of his life and his artistic journey, and we are honored to present a visual look at his work along with our sincere admiration for the person he has become. The canvases on display in the gallery are much more than mere artistic creations – they are a testament to an extraordinary life and the indomitable power of art.We cordially invite you to join this celebration of the creativity and tenacity of Paul Balev, who transformed hardship into a palette of vibrant color and striking emotion.

Helena Staub, Prague August 2023

Artinbox Gallery