Iranian Illustrator Noushin Sadeghian Takes Home Grand Prix at Bratislava Illustration Biennial!
In an exciting development for the world of children’s literature, Iranian visual artist and illustrator Noushin Sadeghian has achieved remarkable recognition by winning the Grand Prix at the 30th Biennial of Illustration Bratislava (BIB) in Slovakia. This prestigious award highlights the significance of her work and the impact of vibrant storytelling through illustrations.
Sadeghian’s award-winning illustrations are featured in the book Daal’s Daughter, written by Ahmad Akbarpour, as reported by IRNA. This enchanting tale has not only captivated readers but has also garnered multiple accolades at international events, including the esteemed Bologna Children’s Book Fair Illustration Competition (BCBF) in 2022.
The narrative of Daal’s Daughter draws from the rich folklore of Lorestan, presenting a compelling story about a girl named Daal, who is nurtured by a simurgh—a benevolent bird prominent in Persian mythology. The plot thickens as the prince falls in love with Daal, leading him on a quest to find her. However, an old woman deceives him, capturing Daal’s daughter and marrying her own daughter to the prince instead.
As the tale unfolds, the prince realizes the deception and embarks on a journey to uncover the truth. The plot takes an unexpected turn when a lion arrives, consuming Daal’s daughter, from whose blood two branches of reeds sprout. A shepherd discovers these reeds and plays a song that recounts the story of Daal’s daughter. In a twist of fate, when the prince cuts the reed in half, Daal’s daughter reappears, bringing the narrative full circle.
This year’s BIB also featured Sahar Tarhandeh, an Iranian researcher of children’s literature and picture books, who served as one of the international jurors. The Biennial of Illustration Bratislava has a rich history, having been held since 1967 under the auspices of UNESCO and the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY). It is renowned as one of the most prestigious international events in the field of illustration.
Every two years, Bratislava, Slovakia, becomes a hub for selected works by illustrators worldwide. This esteemed competition is not just about showcasing art; it also includes:
- Exhibitions of selected illustrative works
- Workshops for budding illustrators
- Symposiums for discussions on children’s literature
- Professional programs aimed at enhancing the skills of illustrators and researchers
The 30th Biennial of Illustration Bratislava commenced on October 3, 2023, and will continue until January 10, 2026, at the iconic Bratislava Castle.
In the past, Iranian illustrators have also made their mark at this prestigious event, with notable winners including Alireza Golduzian in 2005 and Hassan Mousavi in 2019, both of whom received the Grand Prix. The ongoing tradition of excellence in illustration from Iran is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and artistic talent.
As the illustration community converges in Bratislava, they celebrate creativity, storytelling, and the profound impact of visual narratives on young audiences. The Biennial of Illustration Bratislava continues to serve as a significant platform for artists to showcase their work and connect with fellow professionals and enthusiasts in the realm of children’s literature.
In conclusion, Noushin Sadeghian’s achievement at the 30th Biennial of Illustration Bratislava shines a light on the importance of illustrations in storytelling and the power of cultural narratives to resonate across borders. This event not only recognizes outstanding talent but also encourages the sharing of diverse stories that enrich the literary landscape globally.
For more information about the Biennial of Illustration Bratislava and to explore the captivating illustrations of Noushin Sadeghian, stay tuned as the event unfolds over the coming months.
