Uruguay XXI released a new catalog on Apr. 13 featuring illustrators, projects, and publishers as part of Uruguay’s participation in the Bologna International Children’s Book Fair. The initiative aims to support the internationalization of the country’s publishing industry and highlight Uruguayan illustration in global markets.
The catalog brings together creators working with illustrated books across genres such as children’s and young adult literature, graphic experimentation, and contemporary visual narrative. These works engage with themes like culture, education, and the environment while establishing a unique identity that is gaining international recognition.
Featured illustrators include Natalia Cardozo, who combines her work as an author with training activities; María Paz Sartori, who merges illustration with journalism and scientific communication; Ana Bidault, whose narrative style blends traditional and digital techniques; Alfredo Soderguit, known for his extensive international career; Dani Scharf, recognized for his conceptual art showcased worldwide; Sebastián Santana with experience across sectors; Ana Laura Luján through her botanical project Yuyos Ilustrados; and Augusto Giussi behind Fauna Indígena promoting local biodiversity.
The publishing segment highlights Amanuense (specializing in children’s books), Criatura Editora (mixing established authors with new voices), Alter Ediciones (critical publications), Editorial Morisqueta (aesthetic picture books), Ediciones del Garaje (diverse genres including popular science), Gigantes (children’s periodical combining journalism and creative content), Fundación de Cultura Universitaria (academic publications), along with Penguin Random House Grupo Editorial which connects local production to major distribution networks.
According to Uruguay XXI, this catalog supports efforts to promote exportable offerings from the national publishing sector by making them accessible to international buyers at events like the Bologna Book Fair—a key venue for rights commercialization and trend identification. National participation is coordinated alongside the National Directorate of Culture to enhance visibility for both established and emerging talents who have been recognized at previous fairs.
Through this effort Uruguay reaffirms its commitment to developing creative industries within global markets while emphasizing illustration and publishing as important cultural expressions.
