The exhibition of engravings created by Hristophor Gepharovich, Zahraii Orphelin and Velko Mihaylovich was shown in the fall of 2002 in Samokov within the program of the international scientific conference Monastery Culture on the Balkans. Due to the great interest towards the works, it was agreed during the inauguration in the town of Samokov for the exhibition to be shown to viewers in Sofia. Thus, the only collection of Hristophor Gepharovich and Zahraii Orphelin known in Bulgaria, owned by Elena and Ivan Duichevi became accessible to a larger audience.

EXPORT-IMPORT Contemporary Art from Bulgaria

25 February 2003 - 30 March 2003

According to the commercial terminology, Export-Import means the export of one commodity and the import of another. In the context of the present edition this term changes its meaning and denotes our desire to “bring”, virtually and actually, the exported contemporary Bulgarian art back to its native country. Virtually – through the catalogue that preserves the works that have left the borders of the country. Actually – through the exhibition that tries to restore the map of Bulgarian presence abroad.

The Export-Import project is an attempt at filling a “blank” spot in our knowledge about the things happening outside Bulgaria (and inside it also). And at provoking the public opinion towards reconsidering its position about these artists who for more than 10 years have been Bulgaria’s invariable face before the world. All presented authors are alive and in sound health. And they have not yet given up their desire to create art. Isn’t it better to leave behind the “myth of the return” instead of participating in its formation? And to give these artists what they deserve here and now. So that they would not feel as hotel guests in their own country.

Kiro Mavrov drawings painting mobiles

05 February 2003 - 28 February 2003

Kiro Mavrov is familiar to Bulgarian viewers as an illustrator, book designer and author of satiric drawings. His last one-man exhibition was in 1983.

Twenty years later, he presents 10 drawings, 10 paintings on canvass, 10 watercolors, and 5 mechanisms.

The author’s idea appeared years ago. After numerous drawings, sketches and experiments Kiro Mavrov has reached the implementation of the project. His aim is to create one common space, in which separate works complement and influence each other. Active role in it play the mechanisms – kinetic objects representing the actual movement as an echo of painting and drawings.