Young Ukrainian artist Maria Haiduk emerged as the winner of the 59th Bologna Illustrators Exhibition held during the Bologna Children's Book Fair.

This news was announced on the fair's official website.

Maria, a student at the Lviv National Academy from Kherson, received the award for her project "Killing Gods," where she explores ecological issues and society's relationship with nature.

The jury praised her works for their courage and sensitivity, as well as her potential for growth.

This achievement makes her the youngest winner of the exhibition.

"I sincerely hope that my work will draw attention to the genocide that humanity inflicts on nature. I am grateful to my mentors for their support," - wrote Maria.

This year, winners were selected from 4,374 illustrators from 89 countries. A total of 21,870 illustrations were submitted, with 324 artists reaching the finals, including five female illustrators from Ukraine.

About the Bologna Illustrators Exhibition

In 2024, Ukrainian artists Polina Doroshenko and Oksana Domashich also won awards.

The Bologna Illustrators Exhibition, established in 1967, takes place annually showcasing new trends in illustration and promoting emerging talents.

Artists' works are published in the Illustrators Annual – a catalog for publishers available in specialized bookstores worldwide.

The exhibition travels through museums and libraries around the globe, presenting talents from various countries.

This event occurs as part of the Bologna Children's Book Fair in Italy.