Julian Jordanov - prints and biography

Julian Jordanov was born in Lovech, Bulgaria, where he continues to live and work today. He received his Master of Fine Arts from the National Academy of Fine Arts in Sofia and has since become internationally recognized for his mastery of printmaking.

Jordanov’s work is strongly influenced by surrealism and symbolism, blending dreamlike imagery with allegorical meaning. He is particularly acclaimed for his ex libris prints, a highly specialized art form in which he has achieved exceptional skill. These small-scale works, almost always executed in etching and aquatint, are celebrated for their extraordinary detail and refined technique—qualities that make him one of the most sought-after ex libris printmakers in Eastern Europe. In addition to his smaller intaglio works, Jordanov also creates larger prints in lithography, often exploring more expansive surrealistic themes.

Over the course of his career, Jordanov has earned numerous awards at international competitions and biennials, underscoring his reputation as a master printmaker:

• 2006 – 2nd International Biennial of Ex Libris, Sofia, Bulgaria

• 2005 – 1st International Biennale Ex Libris and Small Forms, Gniezno, Poland – Diploma of Honor

• 2005 – 1st International Ex Libris Triennale, Lefkada, Greece – Diploma of Honor

• 2005 – Award of the Royal Circle of Former Atheneum Students, Sint Niklaas, Belgium

• 2003 – 1st International Ex Libris Competition, Ankara, Turkey – First Prize

• 2003 – 1st International Biennial of Ex Libris, Sofia, Bulgaria – Award for Intaglio Techniques

• 2001 – International Ex Libris Competition, Sint Niklaas, Belgium – Diploma of Honor

• 2000 – 4th British International Miniature Print Exhibition, London – Tagus International Purchase Prize

• 1999 – 10th International Print Biennial, Varna, Bulgaria – Award of the Association “Art Dialogue”

• 1996 – IV Bienal Internacional de Grabado, Ourense – Honorable Mention

• 1995 – 8th International Print Biennale, Varna – Award of the President of the Association of American Graphic Artists

Through his technical virtuosity and poetic vision, Julian Jordanov has established himself as one of Bulgaria’s most distinguished printmakers, with a body of work that bridges tradition, symbolism, and surreal imagination.