"The world survived because it laughed!" The quote by the most famous Bulgarian satirist Radoy Radin hardly finds its way to our hearts these days, but if it does, it would bring salvation to our life's journey. Bulgarian cartoonists know this well.

This year, as if in a joke, the caricature artists did not kick off their annual exhibition on the traditional date of April 1, but a week later. Nevertheless, the 47th consecutive edition of the National Caricature Exhibition at the Union of Bulgarian Artists’ 6 Shipka Str Gallery was awaited not only by the caricature professionals, but also by everyone who wants to share a chuckle over mishap and misfortune.

The exposition is an overview of the highest achievements of Bulgarian caricature and cartoon artists.

The pandemic, now entering its third year, the turmoil of recent months on the international and domestic political scene and the resulting social unrest are the subjects for the artists in the exhibition. Many of the works are caricatures of popular figures and the way the public eye sees them.

Artist Milko Dikov, who turned 92 at the end of March , and who was a student of the great Bulgarian master Ilia Beshkov, is an honorary participant in the 47th national exhibition.

The exhibition can be viewed until April 26.

Compiled by: Vesela Krusteva

English: Elizabeth Radkova