By Honorary Reporter Daniela Astolfi from Italy
Photos = Daniela Astolfi

This year's Bologna Children's Book Fair from April 8-11 attracted publishing figures from around the world and 1,523 exhibitors from 100 countries. I attended the first two days of the event. 

Entrance to Bologna Children's Book Fair 

The fair was opened by leading figures like the mayor of Bologna and a high-ranking official of the Italian Ministry of Culture. Italian President Sergio Mattarella gave the opening speech via videoconferencing. 

"Books are an indispensable instrument of knowledge and growth and a source of values, hopes and dreams," he said. "It's important that children also become passionate about reading and find familiarity with books, learning to know, discuss, respect and share."

After the ceremony, I looked around the pavilions and exhibitions of the works of illustrators worldwide, including Lee Su-yeon, Kim Sun-jin and Park Mi-ran from Korea.

Korea Rights Center at Bologna Children's Book Fair 

I participated in three workshops where the Korean creators -- Kim Ji-an, Noh In-kyung and Oh Sena -- discussed their works. The events gave me many ideas and thoughts on Korean illustrations. I especially liked seeing Kim Ji-an, who earned a special mention in the Comics-Early Reader category with her picture book "As You Drive," as she presented her publications and creative process.

Illustrator Kim Jian (right) and her interpreter speak at a meetup with Kim at the Bologna Children's Book Fair. 

Kim explained how her book "Tulip Hotel" came about and nature's role in inspiring the creation of the characters and setting. "I enjoy making observations and telling stories about the things I love. I've become very interested in home building as I spend a lot of time at home alone," she said.

After the workshops, I browsed around the Korean sections and their many illustrated books, seeing the pictures, stories and art of Korean illustrators. Each stand had people giving backgrounds about the authors and catalogs of their publications.

The fair's Illustrator Wall had illustrators attach their works and information. 

The fair's illustrator walls allowed illustrators to hang their business cards and information about their works, a simple but direct way method to get in touch with publishers and other artists.

msjeon22@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.