Slovenia was in April 2024 the guest of honour at the Bologna children’s book fair. This unique opportunity presented a chance to showcase the nation's rich artistic heritage, and at the heart of this endeavor lay the design of a captivating exhibition dedicated to Slovenian illustration.

The exhibition, a testament to the power of visual storytelling, aimed to immerse visitors in the diverse and imaginative world of illustrators. The exhibition's design drew inspiration from Renaissance libraries, aiming to create a focused and engaging environment for visitors. This concept was realized through a carefully designed space featuring a canopy structure. Inspired by the architectural form of a “baldacchino”, the canopy served multiple functions. It effectively isolated the exhibition from the bustling fairground, minimizing distractions and allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the world of illustration.

Furthermore, the use of a baldacchino, traditionally associated with ceremonial occasions, elevated the exhibition's significance and created a sense of occasion, elevating the importance of Slovenian illustration within the international children's book community. This architectural element not only served a practical purpose but also contributed to the overall aesthetic and symbolic impact of the exhibition.

A central aim of exhibition design was to foster dialogue between illustrated books and their visual counterparts, whether original works or reproductions. Placing illustrated books at the heart of the 23 meter long pavilion, visitors were encouraged to explore the surrounding walls adorned with original and reproduced illustrations, facilitating a cyclical reading experience. A crucial component of the exhibition was the integration of art into the very fabric of the space. The canopy ceiling itself became a canvas for a collage, composed of illustrations by Slovenian artists. This display ensured that even amidst the bustling crowds of the exhibition, the captivating illustrations remained visible and accessible to all.

Adjacent to the main exhibition space, an area was dedicated to exploring the vibrant community of Slovenian illustrators. To enhance sustainability and minimize environmental impact, this section incorporated existing exhibition elements previously designed for the Center of Illustration. These elements, already in use to promote Slovenian illustration domestically and internationally, were repurposed and strategically dispersed throughout the exhibition space. This approach not only reduced the need for new materials and construction but also provided a consistent visual language that connected the exhibition to ongoing efforts to promote Slovenian illustration on a global scale. By integrating existing exhibition elements, the exhibition demonstrated a commitment to sustainable practices and showcased the ongoing efforts to promote Slovenian illustration both at home and abroad.