Biennial of Illustration presented this year’s awards in the field of the Bulgarian illustration. Four artists were honored in two categories: Katrin Eftimova-Erol won the “Realized Works” award with her illustrations for the book Upupa Utarkuli, while Sabin Boykinov was recognized for his original drawings in the “Unrealized Works” category. Certificates of recognition were also awarded to Antonina Georgieva for the book Salt and Gergana Evlogieva for an unpublished project. The winners were selected by a jury comprising Milena Radeva, the event organizer, Hristina Grozdanova, curator at the Regional History Museum–Sofia, Nikoleta Gologanova, curator at the Sofia City Art Gallery, Pirina Vodenicharova, publisher, and Grigor Grigorov, artist and teacher. The awards ceremony took place during the official opening of the Biennial of Illustration on November 26, 2024.

The fourth edition of the biennial featured 284 Bulgarian and international artists from Austria, Germany, Italy, Russia, Serbia, Sweden, Ukraine, the United Kingdom and other countries, showcasing a total of 759 works. Nearly 400 of these are on public display until the end of January 2025 at the Regional History Museum–Sofia.

“One of the most notable trends this year is the increase in participants with unrealized works, which, for the first time, outnumbered the realized projects. Additionally, more students and young talents are using the biennial to showcase their abilities. We also see the profound impact of technology in our field, with over half of the artworks being created with digital tools,” commented Milena Radeva.

In addition to digital creations, visitors can enjoy classic illustrations, intriguing photo collages, and sculptural designs. Key themes remain children’s books and interpretations of literary works for students.

“This year’s biennial once again unites artists from different generations, exploring the world and our fragile connection to it through various media. Over time, we’ve observed increasing boldness, both in terms of techniques and subject matter. Diverse perspectives are gaining ever greater importance,” Radeva added.

The inaugural edition of the long-discontinued Biennial of Illustration was revived in October 2018 and has since established itself as the sole platform showcasing Bulgarian illustrators both locally and internationally. It is organized by the Bulgarian Illustration platform, with this year’s edition being realized in partnership with the Regional History Museum–Sofia and supported financially by the Ministry of Culture.