İbrahim Balaban, a painter and writer from Bursa, was imprisoned many times during his youth for various reasons. His meeting with the poet Nazım Hikmet at Bursa Prison became a turning point in his life. Balaban, who had previously painted with pens dipped in olive oil, developed his painting talent with Nazım Hikmet's support and interest. From Nazım, whom Balaban addressed as "Poet Father," he acquired not only painting skills but also deep knowledge of philosophy, sociology, and political economy, becoming one of his students alongside Orhan Kemal.
İbrahim Balaban, who had no academic education, was self-taught; in his works, he predominantly depicted village life, rural people, and their daily lives.
We had the opportunity to work with this valuable artist between 2006-2008. We created a special collection by transferring 25 original works selected by Balaban onto Iznik tiles and ceramics. Each piece was produced in only 15 editions and was presented to art lovers in two exhibitions held in Bursa and Istanbul in 2008.
To access these special collection pieces, whose numbers have diminished over the years, you can visit İbrahim Balaban Designed Iznik Tiles on the collections page.
We remember this great master, who passed away on June 9, 2019, with respect and mercy.
