The country’s only national forum dedicated to illustration launches its anniversary edition as a bridge between generations.

Online submissions are open until September 30.

SOFIA, Bulgaria, September 1, 2026 — Today marks the official opening of submissions for the fifth anniversary edition of the Biennial of Illustration 2026. Across its four previous editions, the event has brought together more than 900 artists and nearly 2,000 works, establishing itself as the only national forum in Bulgaria dedicated entirely to illustration. Until September 30, all Bulgarian artists from the country and abroad — regardless of age, place of residence or experience — can apply online at https://biennale.bulgarian-illustration.com/zayavka-za-uchastie-2026.

The fifth edition is also an opportunity to look back — to the roots of Bulgarian illustration and to the generations of artists without whom it would not exist today.

The Human Creative Hand

This year’s edition confirms the strict ban on AI-generated images. Digital illustration as a technique is fully equal to all other forms — the ban applies only to images created by algorithms, not by artists. The decision is in line with the growing global pushback against AI in the creative industries and expresses a clear position: every work presented at the Biennial must stand behind a specific person and a specific artistic choice.

“The Biennial is about the hands, eyes and minds of artists, not algorithms,”
said Milena Radeva, founder and organizer. “Illustration is a craft, a conscious choice and an inner world. Behind every work there is a person with a personal history, sensitivity and a unique artistic signature. The audience can sense this difference unmistakably, and the more aggressively artificial intelligence enters the creative sphere, the more valuable authentic art becomes. With the fifth edition, we firmly stand behind the artists who put their soul and work into this art form.”

Freedom of Expression

Since its creation, the Biennial has upheld one unwavering principle: openness to every style and subject, with no requirements for a degree or academic background. It is a platform where every artist presents the best of their creative exploration over the past two years, while artistic quality remains the primary criterion.

Established professionals, students and amateurs are all eligible to participate. Works in all visual techniques are accepted — from watercolor, tempera, ink, pastel, graphic art and collage to digital illustration, photography and three-dimensional objects. Originals and prints are considered on an equal basis. The only practical requirement is that works must not exceed A3 format — a condition that ensures equal presentation space in the exhibition hall.

Submission and Categories

The Biennial accepts works created in 2025 and 2026. Each artist may submit up to three works in two categories:

  • Uncommissioned/Unpublished: personal projects, drawings and sketches that are not the result of a commission.
  • Commissioned/Published: illustrations, advertisements, digital or print projects, including works that are yet to be published.

For artists based outside Bulgaria, a simplified procedure is available after the jury selection: selected works are submitted by email, while the organizers assist with printing and framing them for the exhibition in Sofia.

The selected works will be displayed at the “Serdika Triangle Tower” Hall, a branch of the Regional History Museum – Sofia. As is tradition, awards will be presented in both categories, along with an award for lifetime contribution. The jury members and exhibition dates will be announced at a later stage.

Bulgarian Illustration as a Cause

The fifth anniversary edition of the Biennial of Illustration 2026 is organized in partnership with the Regional History Museum – Sofia and with the financial support of the Lachezar Tsotsorkov Foundation — a family organization whose main goal is to contribute to the well-being of Bulgarian society by developing talent in culture, encouraging innovation in education and healthcare, and protecting children. This kind of private patronage reflects a broader understanding that independent art does not grow solely within institutional environments, but also needs supporters who share its values.

“We support the Biennial of Illustration 2026 because we believe that sustainable cultural traditions are built by people with vision, perseverance and civic energy,” said Svetla Tsachevska, Culture Programme Director at the Lachezar Tsotsorkov Foundation.
“Illustration speaks directly — without intermediaries and without translation — and this anniversary edition is proof that when there is a community and dedication, sincere creativity will always find its way.”

About the Biennial of Illustration

The Biennial of Illustration is the only national forum in Bulgaria dedicated entirely to the art of illustration. Founded in 2018 by Milena Radeva, it brings together established names and emerging talents, mapping the contemporary landscape of visual storytelling in Bulgaria. The forum continues the historical tradition of the National Illustration Exhibition (1968–1990), revived after a hiatus of nearly three decades.

The catalogue from each edition is deposited at the National Library “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” and the library of the National Academy of Art, ensuring that the works and their creators leave a lasting mark on the country’s cultural memory. For her work in reviving the Biennial and her contribution to Bulgarian illustration, Milena Radeva was included in this year’s “40 Under 40” ranking by Darik Radio — recognizing people who create real value for society.