Tehran – Sahar Tarhande, a researcher in Iranian children’s literature and picture books, was selected as one of the international ju umpires of Bratislava (BIB 2025), the 30th Grade of Illustrations.
The appointment of the Iranian BIB judge was made by the Iranian Children’s Book Council, in cooperation with the Iranian Illustrators Association and the Institute for Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults (Kanoon), as the official representative of Iranian Ibibi.
These three institutions work together as professional decision-making bodies to select, refer and support Iranian representatives at festivals.
Illustrations biennial Bratislava is one of the most prestigious book illustration events for children in the world. It is held every two years in the Slovak capital, with the support of UNESCO and the International Commission’s Young People (IBBY).
Sahar Tarhande, a director of the Iranian Children’s Book Council, was previously recognized internationally as a judge of the Hans Christian Andersen Prize, widely known as the “Nobel Prize in Children’s Literature.”
With over 20 years of work in criticism, promotions and analysis of children’s literature, she is considered one of the influential cultural figures in this field.
Every two years of illustration, Bratislava has been held since 1967 with the aim of introducing outstanding artistic achievements to children’s illustrations. It is currently organized by Cultural Institution Bibiana with official support from UNESCO, Ibi and the Slovak Ministry of Culture.
The international event will feature a series of exhibits, workshops, symposiums and specialized programs for illustrators and children’s literature researchers around the world.
In addition to Sahar Talhande’s role in the International Ju Court, two other Iranians will also be taking part in the Bib side program this year. Merica Jamali has chosen to participate in the Alvin Brnowsky Illustration Workshop.
They were selected from among applicants who answered open calls and submitted their portfolios for workshops and symposiums.
The presence of Tarhandeh’s ju apprentice continues the long-standing tradition of Iranians who contributed to this international event. Notable participants in the past include Farshid Mesghali (1975), Siros Tahbaz (1977), Nouredin Zarrinkelk (1999), Behzad Gharibpour (2003), Abolfazl Hemmati-Ahouei (2005), Mahhonoush Moshiri (2007), and Alis as a serps as Jurar bib.
The illustrations of the three-year Bratislava will be held at Bratislava Castle from October 2025 to January 2026.
SS/SAB