What's Happening?
The Bologna Children's Book Fair has announced the selections for its 2026 Illustrators Exhibition, a key event in the international literary calendar. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the exhibition, which will feature 75 illustration sets chosen
from a shortlist of 317 finalists. These finalists were selected from a pool of 20,790 submissions by 4,158 illustrators from 94 countries and regions. The exhibition, established in 1967, serves as a platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work. The event will take place from April 13 to 16 at the Bologna Exhibition Center and will include a two-year international tour starting in Japan, Korea, and China. The exhibition's catalogue, The Illustrators Annual, will feature a cover by Iranian illustrator Noushin Sadeghian, the 2025 Bratislava Illustration Biennial Grand Prix winner.
Why It's Important?
The Bologna Children's Book Fair's Illustrators Exhibition is a significant event for the global illustration community, providing a prestigious platform for artists to gain international recognition. The exhibition not only highlights the diversity and creativity of illustrators worldwide but also influences trends in children's literature and publishing. By showcasing a wide range of artistic styles and cultural perspectives, the exhibition fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. The event's international tour further amplifies its impact, allowing artists to reach audiences in major cities around the world. This exposure can lead to new opportunities for illustrators, including book deals and collaborations, thereby contributing to the growth and evolution of the global publishing industry.
What's Next?
Following the exhibition in Bologna, the selected illustrations will embark on a two-year international tour, starting in Japan, Korea, and China. This tour will provide additional exposure for the artists and their work, potentially leading to further opportunities in the global market. The ongoing documentation of the exhibition through The Illustrators Annual ensures that the showcased works reach a wider audience, including publishers, educators, and art enthusiasts. As the exhibition continues to evolve, it may inspire new initiatives and collaborations within the illustration and publishing communities, further enhancing its role as a catalyst for artistic innovation and cultural exchange.
