130 Years of the National Academy of Art: Jubilee Scientific Conference Gathers Art Elite in Burgas

Tradition and Modernity in the Heart of Burgas

From May 27 to 29, the "Sea Casino" Cultural Center in Burgas will host the international scientific conference "130 Years of the National Academy of Art (NAA). Tradition and Modernity." The forum, organized by the National Academy of Art, celebrates the solid history of the oldest higher education institution for arts in Bulgaria, founded in 1896 by decree of Prince Ferdinand.

The event is a key highlight in the NAA's 2026 jubilee program, focusing on innovation in education and the role of the artist in the modern world.

Program Highlights:

• Day 1: Opening by Rector Georgi Yankov. Main topics include the contribution of the NAA to cultural life, the participation of BTA Director General Kiril Valchev, and a lecture on the human image in art by Prof. Svilen Stefanov.
• Day 2: Focus on international cooperation. The influence of Italian Futurism, the development of restoration education, and an analysis of the oldest theater curtain in Bulgaria will be discussed.
• Day 3: A meeting with the psychology of art and underwater archaeology. The program includes discussions on visual experience, documentary cinema, and a visit to St. Anastasia Island.

Among the speakers are established experts such as Anelia Nikolaeva (National Gallery) and Adelina Fileva (Sofia City Art Gallery), as well as international guests such as Prof. Alberto Dambruoso. Visitors will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history and future of the visual arts, and all papers will be published in a specialized scientific collection.