Nikolo Balkanski studied fine art in Bulgaria and Finland. His first one-man exhibition came at the age of twenty-one. He built a strong following in Europe as a master of portraiture and landscapes, with major exhibitions in Bulgaria, Finland, Sweden, England, France and the U.S. He is highly regarded as an inspirational teacher and mentor.

Balkanski was born in Sofia, Bulgaria and currently lives in Lakewood, Colorado. His work is represented by Hayden-Hays Gallery, Colorado Springs, Colorado, Gallery East, Loveland, Colorado, Spirits in the Wind Gallery, Naples, Florida, Weatherburn Gallery, Naples, Florida and Knox Galleries, Denver and Beaver Creek, Colorado.