The rector of the National Academy of Art (NAA), Prof. Georgi Yankov, today presented Tsarevo mayor Marin Kirov with the rector's Honorary Badge and a certificate. The ceremony was held at the Atelier gallery, the NAA's branch in Burgas.

The award recognises Kirov's support for students and his care for the cultural environment in Tsarevo municipality. The academy says he provided students with conditions for creative work at the NAA's creative base in Ahtopol. It also honoured him for improving the visual environment and for the cultural development of the municipality.

The citation also notes his contribution to the visual arts and higher art education. Students, teachers and staff of the academy attended the ceremony.

The badge was created to mark the 130th anniversary of the NAA, which was founded in 1896 as the State Drawing School. The rector gives it to prominent public figures, patrons and donors. With the badge, the academy thanks them for their contribution to the visual arts, Bulgarian culture and higher education, and for their support for the academy.

Three NAA lecturers designed and made the badge: Prof. Nikolay Mladenov, PhD, and Assoc. Prof. Georgi Pavlov, PhD, from the poster and visual communication department, and senior assistant Ventsislav Shishkov, PhD, from the metal department.

At the end of September, the academy also signed an agreement on cooperation and joint activity with Pomorie municipality. Prof. Yankov and Pomorie mayor Ivan Aleksiev signed the document. The agreement runs for 5 years and provides for developing cultural life, supporting young artists and protecting cultural heritage.