BCBF's Illustrators Exhibition finalist

So excited to be one of the finalists amongst many talented illustrators on the 58th edition of the Bologna Children’s Book Fair’s Illustrators Exhibition.

What is BCBF?

Bologna Children’s Book Fair (BCBF) is THE event in children’s publishing which also extends to current multimedia and licensing businesses for children’s stories, illustration, animation and related areas. It is the world’s largest international rights fair for children’s literature.

Publishers, illustrators, graphic designers, literary agents, authors, translators, mobile developers, licensors and licensees, packagers, printers, distributors, audiobook professionals, booksellers, brands, librarians and teachers all flock to the event each spring to experience the world of books and multimedia products in thousands of booths across six huge halls. *

It is a huge opportunity for meeting likeminded people. Besides agents selling publishing rights, there are art shows, award ceremonies, panel discussions and presentations, masterclasses and workshops and tons of children's books.

Illustrators Exhibition

The Illustrators Exhibition is a showcase for the latest trends in illustration and talent spotting new artists held during Bologna Children’s Book Fair.

Launched in 1967, the Exhibition displays a wide selection of artists from different countries offering young emerging talents tangible professional opportunities.**

Who is Gallo?

Gallo is the main character of my very first authorial picturebook, called Képeslap El Idilióból (Postcard from El Idilio), published 2023 by Csimota Kiadó.

He is a rooster working in a grey egg factory. One day he receives a mysterious postcard that leads him to completely changing his life.

Call for submissions and being shortlisted

After BCBF announced the call for submissions for the BCBF Illustrators Exhibition, five illustrations from my picturebook were sent to the competition (see four of them in this blogpost).

There were submissions from 3520 artists from 81 countries and territories. To my happiness, Gallo was chosen to be one of the 346 finalists amongst many many great illustrators.

This is the biggest recognition I’ve ever received within my industry, and feel really proud, thankful and honoured. I really feel that I've reached something I couldn't imagine, and very delighted to be part of it. The fact of being shortlisted gives possibility to enter the fair and have a booked place for a portfolio review with authors and publishers.

Thank you Bologna Children's Book Fair 2024 and the inspiring jury!

*Quoted from: https://www.publishingscotland.org/event/bologna-childrens-book-fair-italy/

**Quoted from: https://www.bolognachildrensbookfair.com/en/focus-on/illustrators/the-illustrators-exhibition/7940.html

@All rights reserved, Anna Alacs 2024