Slovenia is making waves at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025 — and not just through words. The spotlight is now turning to the visual creatives: illustrators, graphic designers, and visual storytellers who are redefining how books look, feel, and connect with global audiences.
With Slovenia as Guest of Honour, this year is a golden opportunity for visual professionals to get noticed, build partnerships, and showcase their work on the world stage.
Here’s how Slovenian illustrators and designers are standing out — and why the global publishing world is paying attention.
Table of Contents
Presence
Slovenian illustration and design have long been respected in Europe, but Frankfurt 2025 is giving them the global platform they deserve. The curated exhibition spaces will include:
- Solo showcases of award-winning illustrators
- Joint exhibitions of children’s book art
- Design talks focused on book covers, layouts, and typography
Visitors can expect everything from minimalist graphic novels to richly detailed folklore illustrations. Slovenia is bringing its visual A-game, blending modern design with cultural heritage.
Talent
A new generation of Slovenian illustrators is gaining international recognition. Some names to watch out for include:
- Alenka Sottler (known for her expressive linework)
- Andreja Peklar (whose picture books win global awards)
- Damijan Stepančič (bringing bold, vibrant characters to life)
Many are not just illustrating — they’re also writing and designing their own books, making them triple threats in the creative world. These multidisciplinary talents are exactly what publishers and agencies are hunting for.
Portfolio
For Slovenian artists attending Frankfurt 2025, having a standout portfolio is key. Expect:
- Print and digital portfolios on display
- Interactive tablet-based showcases
- Limited edition prints and illustrated books for sale
Designers are also using augmented reality (AR) to bring pages to life, giving a modern twist to traditional illustration. These tech-driven presentations are turning heads and creating buzz.
B2B
The business side of illustration is thriving at Frankfurt — and Slovenia’s artists are tapping in. Opportunities include:
- Licensing artwork for international books
- Collaborating with foreign publishers
- Selling cover designs, icons, and layout templates
- Partnering with ed-tech and game developers
Agencies and publishers from the US, UK, and Asia are scouting for fresh visuals that translate well across cultures. Slovenian art, with its poetic style and strong visual identity, fits the bill.
Design
Slovenian graphic design has a unique flair — elegant, smart, and often deeply symbolic. Book design in Slovenia isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a major part of the creative process.
Expect to see:
- Experimental typography
- Unusual binding techniques
- Covers that act as standalone art
Workshops at the Slovenian pavilion will give a behind-the-scenes look at the design thinking behind some of the country’s most successful titles.
Exposure
Frankfurt 2025 is more than a showcase — it’s a springboard. With thousands of professionals attending, Slovenian illustrators and designers are being exposed to:
- Literary agents
- Gallery owners
- Print-on-demand services
- Global design media
Their work is also featured in the official Guest of Honour catalogue and digital platforms, giving them visibility long after the fair ends.
Future
Slovenia’s creative scene is evolving fast, and the 2025 Frankfurt Book Fair is showing the world just how future-ready it is. With innovation, heritage, and a bold visual voice, Slovenian illustrators and designers are carving out space on the global stage.
For creatives, this is more than a fair — it’s a career accelerator. And for publishers, it’s the perfect place to discover new talent that speaks across borders.
FAQs
Who are top Slovenian illustrators?
Names like Alenka Sottler and Andreja Peklar lead the scene.
Can designers license their work?
Yes, through B2B meetings with publishers and agencies.
What formats are portfolios shown in?
Print books, digital screens, and interactive displays.
Is AR used in illustrations?
Yes, some artists use AR to animate pages and artworks.
How do designers benefit from Frankfurt?
Through exposure, deals, and international collaborations.
