Exhibition of Vinarova-Radeva’s work ‘Beyond the Portrait’ opens on November 7
An exhibition entitled “Bistra Vinarova–Radeva (1890–1977) Beyond the Portrait’ opens at the National Gallery – The Palace in Bulgaria’s capital Sofia on November 7 and continues until November 30 2025.
The gallery said that the exhibition showcases the portrait art of Vinarova–Radeva – one of the most refined and distinguished figures in Bulgarian modern art.
“The artist stands out as a bearer of subtle psychological insight and emotional depth that transcend the surface of the image,” the gallery said.
In her early work, Vinarova assimilates the expressive power of form, influenced by German Expressionism and Cubism, which she mastered during her studies in Dresden and Munich.
In her pieces from this period, the human figure is constructed through geometric volumes, vivid colour contrasts, and psychological tension. Over time, her art turns toward the intimate.
In compositions from the 1940s to the 1970s – especially in the portraits of Simeon Radev – warm, earthy tones, subdued light and inner spiritual harmony prevail. Thus, Vinarova moves from avant-garde expression to inner contemplation, from the image as a reflection of modern times to the image as a spiritual portrait.
Alongside the paintings and graphic works, the exhibition presents documents, letters, and photographs from the Archives State Agency, preserved in the Central State Archive – Fund No. 77K “Family Fund of Simeon and Bistra Radevi (1879–2010).” Among them are photographs of the artist’s family – her parents, General Varban and Elisaveta (Eliza) Vinarovi – as well as her brothers.
Also on display are photographs of the artist from her childhood, youth, and the period when she was married to the writer, historian, and diplomat Simeon Radev.
