BTA Celebrates 60 Years of LIK Magazine with January Edition

On Thursday, the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) unveiled the January edition of its art and culture magazine, LIK, marking its 60th anniversary since the inaugural 1965 issue. Titled “LIK at 60”, the event was hosted at BTA’s MaxiM Hall and connected press clubs nationwide via video conference, CE Report quotes BTA

BTA Director General Kiril Valchev highlighted the magazine's legacy, calling it "a door to art and culture for Bulgarian people." He reflected on the first issue's bold coverage, including Salvador Dalí's announcement of a new art form and a daring ranking of Pablo Picasso as the second-best artist after Dalí.

Restoring Cultural Tradition
LIK’s monthly publication resumed in 2023 after two interruptions in its history. Distributed free of charge to libraries and institutions, the magazine is also accessible online. Plans are underway to expand its reach to Bulgarian communities abroad.

Editor-in-Chief Assoc. Prof. Georgi Lozanov emphasized LIK's role in championing cultural integrity, steering away from political or market influences. He outlined five key alternatives the magazine offers, including countering social media's fleeting fame culture and reviving interest in cultural heritage.

Tributes and Future Initiatives
Former BTA Director Panayor Denev and National Art Academy Rector Prof. Georgi Yankov praised LIK for its contribution to culture and education. Valchev announced the development of a custom BTA typeface named LIK, created by art academy students, which will soon be available to other institutions.

The event also featured video messages from Bulgarian Antarctic researchers and Commander Nikolai Danailov, who celebrated LIK’s coverage of Antarctic expeditions.

To commemorate the anniversary, BTA has made LIK’s inaugural 1965 issue freely available online, showcasing its enduring commitment to Bulgarian art, culture, and science.