“20th Century Bulgarian Art” from the Collection of Ruse Art Gallery at “Prof. Teofan Sokerov” Art Gallery – Lovech

Opening: June 19, 2025, 5:30 PM

Prof. Teofan Sokerov Art Gallery – Lovech presents the guest exhibition “20th Century Bulgarian Art” from the collection of Ruse Art Gallery. The exhibition features works by prominent Bulgarian artists created between the 1920s and 1980s.

The exhibition traces the development of Bulgarian visual art throughout a dynamic and complex century—ranging from academic realism and Impressionist influences, through modernist and national romantic expressions, to the experimental and individual styles of the 1970s and 1980s.

Among the featured artists are renowned names such as Vladimir Dimitrov – The Master, Zlatyu Boyadzhiev, Bencho Obreshkov, Iliya Petrov, Nenko Balkanski, Genko Genkov, as well as painters associated with the so-called “Ruse Painting School.” Their works are distinguished by a strong sense of intimacy, a connection to the native landscape, urban atmosphere, and a preference for chamber genres.

A significant part of the exhibition is devoted to the founding artists of the Ruse gallery, whose works laid the foundation of its collection following the 1933 exhibition of Ruse artists. These include Alexander Lazarov, Atanas Mihov, Georgi Karakashev, Dimitar Diolev, among others. Their paintings preserve the spirit of the era—characterized by realism, emotional depth, and a deep affection for Bulgarian nature and daily life.

Curated with a focus on the stylistic and thematic richness of 20th-century Bulgarian art, the exhibition showcases both continuity and the individual creative pursuits of several generations of artists.