First Friday Art Walk

NexLynx Gallery is the “must see” art gallery on the First Friday Art Walk located in the historic Bates Building in the heart of Downtown Topeka. Beginning in 2010, we have shown hundreds of original photographs, paintings, carvings and sculptures from dozens of local and regional artists. The First Friday Art Walk is our “Opening Reception“ for each new monthly exhibit at NexLynx Gallery of Arts. The First Friday Art Walk is a program of ArtsConnect.


First Friday Art Walk – September 2023

We’re thrilled to invite you to explore a diverse collection of captivating works of art. Our featured artist may not boast an art degree, but Nancy possesses extreme talent with a love for art in all its forms. For years, she’s dabbled in various artistic expressions, fueled by passion and creativity.

Over two decades ago, Nancy had the privilege of meeting the remarkable color pencil artist, Ann Kullberg from Seattle, WA. She became not only her mentor, but also a cherished friend. Through her expert guidance and numerous classes, Nancy honed her skills in color pencil portraits. Her dedication and talent were recognized, as she proudly saw her work published in two color pencil teaching books alongside 29 international artists. Furthermore, a moment of pride came when one of Nancy’s portraits found a place of honor at the prestigious DAR headquarters (Daughters of American Revolution) in Washington DC.

But Nancy’s artistic journey didn’t stop there. Around six years ago, she stumbled upon the enchanting world of alcohol inks. This new medium infused her art with a vibrant and thrilling energy. The bold and exciting colors of alcohol inks found their way onto tiles, glass, and canvas, creating captivating masterpieces. Nancy took it upon herself to master this medium through self-teaching and experimentation, and now she can’t wait to share the magic of alcohol inks with you.

You might think that creating art is reserved for the skilled and trained, but with alcohol inks, anyone can be an artist! It opens up a realm of abstract possibilities, allowing everyone to create beautiful and unique pieces. Nancy believes that art should be a joyful experience, and that’s exactly what alcohol inks bring to the table – a fast and fun side gig for both beginners and experienced artists alike. Come chat about a class and learn the inks alongside her at her opening reception.

  • Our History


  • NexLynx Gallery of Arts started in 2010, after being selected as one of the venues for the ReThink Topeka Exhibition and Art Walk that same year and each year after. The Re-Think Topeka Art Walk was a movement to spur re-building community awareness through art and cultural events. NexLynx continues to be a proud supporter of the art community with our monthly exhibits and opening receptions. We worked with the former Arts Council of Topeka, and now ArtsConnect to promote art in the community as a premier downtown gallery on the Downtown Topeka Art Walk.

    The Gallery is located on the 2nd floor of the historic downtown Bates Building. Walter L. Bates' (1859-1903) last business enterprise was the building of the structures on the corner of Sixth Avenue and Jackson Streets, known as the Bates Block, which includes the I.O.O.F. Hall (117 W. 6th - c. 1910) and 123 W. 6th (c. 1902).


    NexLynx Gallery was voted a Finalist for both 2016 and 2017 People's Choice Awards, nominated by people in the Topeka Community as their favorite stop on the First Friday Art Walk, a program of ArtsConnect.

    • NexLynx Gallery of Arts