Plaza de Platerías (2018) Painting by Francisco Molina Balderas

Francisco Molina Balderas is a contemporary Spanish painter known for his mastery of watercolor. While his initial foray into the art world in 1977 featured oil paintings, Balderas soon found his true calling in watercolor, drawn to its ability to capture light—a fundamental element of figurative painting. Exploring the myriad possibilities of this medium, he imbues his works with expressive vigor and vibrant color intensity.

Balderas pursued a Bachelor's degree in Geography and History at the Faculty of Letters of the University of Granada. His talent was quickly recognized when he won the First Prize in the "III Alonso Cano National University Painting Contest," organized by the University Extension Service of Granada. This achievement, coupled with the University of Granada's acquisition of several of his works for the Rectorate, served as a catalyst for his continued dedication to painting.

Balderas seamlessly balanced his academic pursuits with his passion for painting, later intertwining his teaching career with his artistic endeavors. Reflecting on this dual vocation, he remarked, "I chose teaching as a vocation and painting as a passion."

Over the span of more than five decades, Balderas has left an indelible mark on the art world with twelve solo exhibitions, including two held in museums, and participation in over twenty collective exhibitions. His works have garnered widespread acclaim, with over 300 paintings sold—a testament to the public's appreciation of his artistry.

In 1971, Balderas embarked on his teaching career at the "Reyes Católicos" Institute in Vélez Málaga, where he remained until his retirement. Despite residing in Torre del Mar since then, his emotional connection to Granada's landscape remains palpable in his paintings, tinged with a sense of longing. Additionally, the sea, a prominent feature of Torre del Mar's scenery, has become a recurring theme in his art.

In 2004, Balderas published a book titled "In a Seagull's Flight: Balderas Watercolors," offering insight into his artistic journey. Furthermore, in 2011, he was invited to serve on the jury of the prestigious Awards jury of the IV national painting contest "RAMÓN PORTILLO-CITY OF MOTRIL."

• Nationality: SPAIN
• Date of birth : 1946
• Artistic domains:
• Groups: Contemporary Spanish Artists