Iranian Innovator Sahar Tarhandeh Joins Jury for Esteemed 30th Biennial of Illustration Bratislava
In a significant development for children’s literature, Iranian researcher Sahar Tarhandeh has been appointed as one of the international jurors for the esteemed 30th Biennial of Illustration Bratislava (BIB 2025). This prestigious recognition underscores the global importance of Iranian contributions to the field of children’s literature and illustration.
The nomination of Tarhandeh, a prominent figure in children’s literature, comes through a collaborative effort by the Children’s Book Council of Iran, the Iranian Illustrators Society, and the Institute for the Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults (Kanoon). These three organizations collectively serve as the official representative of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) in Iran, playing a crucial role in selecting and supporting the country’s representatives at international festivals.
The Biennial of Illustration Bratislava is recognized as one of the most prestigious events in the world dedicated to children’s book illustration. It takes place every two years in the capital of Slovakia, with the support of UNESCO and the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY).
Sahar Tarhandeh, who is also a board member of the Children’s Book Council of Iran, brings a wealth of experience to her role as a juror. She has previously served as a judge for the renowned Hans Christian Andersen Award, often referred to as the “Nobel Prize for Children’s Literature.” With over two decades of involvement in the criticism, promotion, and analysis of children’s literature, Tarhandeh is regarded as a key cultural figure in this domain.
The Biennial of Illustration Bratislava has been held since 1967, aiming to showcase outstanding artistic achievements in children’s illustration. Currently organized by the cultural institution BIBIANA, it is officially supported by UNESCO, IBBY, and the Slovak Ministry of Culture.
This international event includes a variety of offerings such as:
- Exhibitions
- Workshops
- Symposiums
- Professional programs for illustrators and researchers in children’s literature
In addition to Tarhandeh’s role on the international jury, two other Iranian participants will be featured in BIB’s side programs this year. They are:
- Melika Jamali: Selected to attend the Albín Brunovský Illustration Workshop
- Parisa Beabadi: Chosen to participate in the BIB Symposium themed “The Impact of the Biennial of Illustration Bratislava on Illustration Movements”
Both Jamali and Beabadi were selected from a pool of applicants who submitted their portfolios in response to an open call for the workshop and symposium, highlighting the competitive nature of this international gathering.
Tarhandeh’s participation as a juror continues a rich legacy of Iranian contributors to this esteemed event. Previous noted figures from Iran who have participated include:
- Farshid Mesghali (1975)
- Siros Tahbaz (1977)
- Nouredin Zarrinkelk (1999)
- Behzad Gharibpour (2003)
- Abolfazl Hemmati-Ahouei (2005)
- Mahnoush Moshiri (2007)
- Ali Boozari (2017 and 2019)
These individuals have served as jurors or speakers at various editions of BIB, further solidifying Iran’s presence and influence in the global children’s literature landscape.
The 30th Biennial of Illustration Bratislava is set to take place from October 2025 to January 2026 at the historic Bratislava Castle. This event promises to be a vibrant gathering for artists, illustrators, and literature enthusiasts, fostering collaboration and celebrating the art of children’s illustration worldwide.
As the event approaches, anticipation builds for the impactful discussions, workshops, and exhibitions that will undoubtedly highlight the evolving nature of children’s literature and illustration on an international stage.
