#Japan #Tokyo #Itabashi Ward #Children's Books #Bologna Exhibition

Bologna Children's Book Illustration Exhibition 2025

The prestigious Bologna Children's Book Illustration Exhibition, noted for its annual showcase in Italy, is set to take place in Tokyo's Itabashi Ward from June 27 to August 11, 2025. This exhibition will present a diverse array of award-winning illustrations from the 2025 competition, which attracted an unprecedented number of entries from 4,374 illustrators across 89 countries and regions.

The exhibition is celebrated for introducing new talent in the realm of children's literature and provides insights into global trends and themes within children's book illustrations. This year’s event will prominently feature special exhibits from notable artists, including the newly awarded Brazilian illustrator Henrique Cozzarelli Moreira, who won the 2024 Bologna SM Publishing Prize, and Canadian artist Sydney Smith, who received the 2024 Hans Christian Andersen Award for Illustrators. Their works, together with others, will comprise around 50 showcased pieces including sketches and sketches from their creative processes.

In addition to the exhibits, the event will host a variety of engaging programs aimed at promoting appreciation for picture books. These will include lectures featuring selected illustrators and jury members from the Bologna competition, providing audiences with unique insights and stories behind the art. Workshops catering to a wide range of participants, from aspiring young illustrators to more experienced professionals, will enable participants to dive into the art of creating picture books.

Itabashi Ward has a historical connection with the Bologna Children's Book Fair, dating back to the inaugural Bologna International Picture Book Exhibition held in 1981 at the Itabashi Art Museum. This vibrant relationship has fostered many cultural exchanges, allowing Itabashi to establish itself as a hub for picture book culture. The community actively promotes its identity through initiatives like 'The Picture Book Town Itabashi,' showcasing art and storytelling resources.

Exhibition Details

• - Dates: June 27 - August 11, 2025
• - Location: Itabashi Art Museum, 5-34-27 Akatsuka, Itabashi, Tokyo
• - Opening Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM)
• - Closed: Mondays, with special openings on Monday, July 21, and Monday, August 11.
• - Admission Fees: General ¥900, University students ¥600, Free for high school students and younger. Discounts available for seniors and individuals with disabilities (ID required).

This exhibition not only serves to highlight the artistic talents of illustrators from around the globe but also provides a platform for enriching discussions about the evolution and significance of picture books in education and culture. As Itabashi Ward continues to emphasize its link to children's literature and art, the Bologna Children's Book Illustration Exhibition promises to be an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages, fostering a love for reading and art through its carefully curated displays and interactive programs.

The collaboration between Itabashi Ward and Bologna is supported by the Japan Board on Books for Young People (JBBY) and various international partners, ensuring that this exhibition will not only promise an artistic showcase but also a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community engagement.

For more information, please contact the International Exchange Division at Itabashi Ward's Cultural Affairs Department at 03-3979-3251.