Artist
Dr. V. Balu (Venkatraman Balu) was a Bangalore-based collage artist, writer, and peace ambassador whose work seamlessly blended creativity with inner peace. Guided by the belief that individual inner peace is the foundation of world peace, he dedicated his life to helping people rediscover serenity and compassion through art, writing, and dialogue.
Artistic Journey
Beginning his creative life as a cartoonist and painter, Balu eventually found his true medium in paper collage. Over four decades, he worked with more than 3,000 varieties of discarded printed paper including cutting, arranging, and layering them into meditative compositions. His artworks often emerged from a state of deep silence, and viewers frequently described his colors and forms radiating peaceful vibrations. For Balu, collage was not just a technique but a mindful practice that transformed everyday materials into visual reflections of tranquility.
Art, Purpose, and a Lifelong Mission for Peace
Philosophy and Mission
Balu believed that peace is not a distant global ideal but a personal, individualistic choice. His teachings emphasised simple, practical shifts like curbing anger, softening ego, choosing non-violence, and nurturing kindness.
With both his art and his writing, his message remained the same: peace begins within, and every individual has the power to influence the world through their inner state.
Peace Work and Global Mission
From 1982 onward, Balu travelled the world on his “one-man global peace mission,” offering free presentations at universities, cultural centres, spiritual organisations, and institutions like the UN and UNESCO. His sessions blended peace-themed collages, audio-visual explorations of inner peace, and reflective discussions. His work received global recognition from figures such as the Dalai Lama, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Sir Edmund Hillary, and UNESCO leaders for both his artistic originality and his dedication to peace.