Young Talents Recreated Europe in Graffiti on St. Nicholas Day

The "From Drawing to Graffiti – Europe Through My Eyes" competition brought together over 50 young talents from grades VIII to XII, responding to the call for creative expression. Organized by the "Chance for Children and Nature of Bulgaria" Foundation, in partnership with the Center for Human Resources Development, the competition transformed the visions of young people for Europe into art.

The jury, composed of renowned names in the art world – Georgi Andonov (artist), Diana Savateva (deputy mayor for culture of Burgas Municipality), and Ivan Yankov – Esteo (graffiti artist), had the difficult task of evaluating the works. The evaluation criteria were high: originality, artistic execution, and above all – a convincing connection to the theme. Participants had to present their favorite destinations, dreamed travels, or an overall vision for the future of Europe through their eyes. The task was definitely provocative, making young artists reflect on Europe beyond the boundaries of everyday life.

After careful deliberation, the jury announced its winners:

• First place was won by Gabriela Dimitrova, a IX grade student from PGEE "Konstantin Fotinov".
• Second place was taken by Alfiya Galiullina, also from IX grade, from NEG "Goethe".
• Third place was awarded to Arina Timofeeva, a XII grade student from SU "Lyuben Karavelov".

In addition to these prizes, encouragement awards were also given:

• Alexandra Ordalieva, a X grade student from SU "Bishop Konstantin Preslavski" and Arseniy Donchenko, a XI grade student from PGEE "Konstantin Fotinov" were also recognized for their works.

The most exciting part of the competition is yet to come. The works of the winners will be transformed into graffiti by Ivan Yankov – Esteo himself, known for his unique style and talent. They will come to life in the city center, giving everyone the opportunity to enjoy the creativity of young people. The official opening of the graffiti is planned for the holiday of the city of Burgas – December 6 (Nikulden), at 2:00 PM on "Aleko Konstantinov" Street (the street of the arts). The event is expected to be colorful and memorable, transforming the city into an open-air gallery.

The organizers invite all participants in the competition, as well as the young people of Burgas and the region, to attend the celebration. In addition to the opening of the graffiti, the event will offer a varied program. There will be an information meeting for the "Eurodesk" network, which will present the opportunities it offers. An open-air plein air will also be organized, where the artists will be able to share their ideas. And last but not least, challenging games on a European theme will be offered, which will entertain those present.

The initiative is organized on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the creation of the Eurodesk network – a leading European information platform. For more than three decades, this platform has connected young people with opportunities for education, volunteering, and personal development in Europe, playing a key role in their professional and personal growth.