2nd Place Winning Entry, 2024 Watercolor Competition
Svetlin Sofroniev, Expectation (Boats on Shore, Santa Margherita), watercolor
Svetlin Sofroniev
Svetlin Sofroniev has loved working with watercolor from the time he was a boy in Lom, Bulgaria. He graduated from the St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo with a specialty in Pedagogy of Arts (a teaching degree) and since then has garnered numerous awards in international exhibitions, and his work is in galleries and private collections worldwide.
Svetlin Sofroniev, Siesta, acrylic
Sofroniev's entry, Expectation (Boats on Shore, Santa Margherita), has earned an award for 2nd Place in our Watercolor Competition. He shares his thoughts about how the painting developed:
"I've always been captivated by the serene beauty of boats resting on the shore. During a visit to Santa Margherita, this fascination was reignited when I encountered a scene that perfectly encapsulated the essence of tranquility and coastal life. The vibrant striped canvas covering the boats added an extra dimension of visual interest, inspiring me to capture this moment on paper.
"With Expectation, my aim is to transport the viewer to that idyllic coastal setting where time seems to stand still. Through the interplay of light, color, and texture, I invite viewers to immerse themselves in the peaceful atmosphere and contemplate the anticipation inherent in quiet moments by the shore.”
Svetlin Sofroniev, Scrap Life Garage, watercolor
"As far as my materials, I really like to find old, vintage papers and experiment with them. They are unpredictable, different from the mainstream, and very interesting to work with, producing unique textures and effects. In this painting, I used handmade paper that added depth and character.
"For me, watercolor is a passion and a challenge with its subtle and gentle nature, innate wildness, and unpredictability. It can easily express the impression of the moment, quick and concise, but sufficient. I compare it to haiku poetry - it says everything without burdening with specifics."