site.bta23rd International Print Biennial in Varna Opens on August 15

The 23rd International Print Biennial in Varna will open on August 15, which is the holiday of the seaside city. Prof. Valeri Chakalov, Director of the local Graphic Art Gallery, told a news conference on Tuesday that nearly 1,800 artworks from around the world were submitted for the show. Following the decision of the selection jury, chaired by Petar Lazarov, the public will be able to view 515 works from 59 countries. Around 40 Bulgarian artists will be featured.

The biennial is a major cultural event not only for Varna and Bulgaria but also for Europe, and displaying the artworks presents a real challenge, Chakalov added. He noted that the prints will be exhibited across several locations in the city. For the first time this year, the artworks will be framed and displayed behind glass.

The artists’ works will be judged by an international jury composed of experts from China, Romania, Scotland, and England.

Speaking to BTA, Petar Lazarov, the jury chair, said that, for him personally, every print exhibition is a deeply emotional experience. According to him, the exhibition in Varna is exceptional, as the artworks come from all corners of the world, showcasing a variety of styles, ethnic elements, and cultural perspectives.

Lazarov commented: “Graphic art remains a professional form of art where the technique immediately reveals whether the work is well-executed or not.” He emphasized that only works created using classical techniques were accepted for participation. “The Biennial in Varna is conservative. And although conservatism is often seen as a dirty word, let’s not forget, no one preserves rubbish, right?” he remarked.

This year, for the first time, the Union of Bulgarian Artists (UBA) will present its own award at the International Print Biennial, Prof. Chakalov said. According to him, the UBA award will go to a young artist. In addition, for the first time, Varna's Le Papillon Art Gallery will also present a prize, offering the winner the opportunity to hold a solo exhibition.