Festival Curator, FIG.6
FIG. -Festival for Illustration and Graphics launches an open call for curator of its sixth edition, taking place in Sofia from June 6, 2026. The selected curator will be responsible for developing the curatorial framework and concept of the festival and curating its main exhibition.
Founded in 2021, FIG. - Festival for lllustration and Graphics moves beyond traditional understandings of graphic arts and illustration, exploring their potential to engage critically with the world and to exist within the wider context of contemporary art. FIG reimagines these practices not as fixed forms or techniques, but as evolving languages capable of questioning, reflecting, and shaping current realities. It serves as a space for experimentation where illustration, design, and graphic expression intersect with artistic, social, and theoretical discourses-rethinking their place and relevance in our present moment.
Previous themes have explored a wide range of perspectives on visual and social inquiry. From the boundaries between figuration and abstraction and the search for new visual languages that reflect contemporary complexity, to the creative and philosophical potential of mistakes as a way to reframe uncertainty, and the ethics and possibilities of collaboration and collective practice within art and design.
Format of the Festival
The festival spans 10 days, opening on June 6, 2026. Each edition begins with a group exhibition that directly engages with the year's theme. The program also features a solo exhibition by an emerging artist, along with workshops, screenings, lectures, and public discussions, turning Sofia into a space for creative exchange and critical reflection.
Curator Role
Develop the 2026 festival theme in collaboration with the FIG team.
Curate the main group exhibition, including both new commissions and existing works by
local (Bulgarian-based) and international artists.Write a curatorial statement and develop the general framework of the festival.
Attend regular online meetings to conceptualise and refine the theme and framework.
Conduct a research trip to Bulgaria, including studio visits and meetings with local artists and practitioners, before the selection of participants.
Oversee the production of new commissions, working closely with artists and the festival team.
Attend the festival opening and participate in installation and setup processes.
Participate in the public program through a talk, discussion, or presentation (optional).
The curator will collaborate closely with the FIG. team and will have the support of a designated assistant curator.
Resources and Support
Net Honorarium: €3,200
Travel: Two covered round-trip tickets (for research and for the festival opening)
Accommodation: Provided during the research visit and the festival opening period
Production budget: Provided for the realisation of the main exhibition
Artist fees budget: Provided for the participating artists
Application Requirements
Applicants should submit the following materials:
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Portfolio (up to 10 pages) demonstrating previous curatorial or related projects
Outline of Curatorial Concept (max. 2 pages) – a general concept and framework of the festival and a preliminary framework for the main exhibition; suggestions of artists are welcome but not mandatory
Each document should be named [Your Name] - CV/Portfolio/Curatorial Concept
Submission
Please send your application to info@fig.bg with the subject line: FIG.6 Curator Application - [Your Name]
Application deadline: December 10, 2025
Selected applicants may be invited for an interview. The appointed curator will be announced at the end of December.
For any enquiries related to the role and the terms of the open call, please email info@fig.bg no later than December 1
FIG. - Festival for Illustration and Graphics is a project by KO-OP Art Space