Luddington Creative headed to the Bologna Children’s Book Fair this week. It was a buzzing fast paced few days, and in this blog, I’m handing the stage to my Luddington creatives who accompanied me to Bologna, to share the fair through their eyes and experiences.

Some of our illustrators have even captured the magic of Bologna in their own way, creating stunning artworks inspired by the fair. Take a look through to see their incredible interpretations and get a glimpse of Bologna through an illustrator’s lens!

Ivy Trazsi

“This week in Bologna I’ve learnt what it means TO ARRIVE. To feel connected in your gut. To know that you are who you meant to be and you are where you meant to be. After such a long journey, I feel that I have arrived on my own path. No need to look anymore, just to live for the moment, accept what life brings and feel grateful for everyone and everything.”

Heike Scharrer

Donkey Towers
(Torri degli Asinelli)

“Walking
Past a sweet shop
a bar and a kiosk.

Squishing
Between toddlers
Scooting down lengthy porticoes.

Running
Past a fume cloud
A pastry crowd
A screeching sound.

Skipping
Past two ladies,
Lazy lapdogs
At the traffic lights.

Walking,
Squishing,
Running,
Skipping.
Stop.
Chat.
Go.”

Phillip Cullen

“This year was my second year at the Bologna Book Fair. But my first year as a Luddington Creative. Bologna can be overwhelming the first time and it was still overwhelming the second time. There is so much to see, wonderful exhibitions and the talks are fantastic.

I saw Sydney Smith talk about his process, getting a glimpse into how other artists work is amazing! I met Lucie and other Luddington creatives, it was a joy and it felt like a little family reunion! I also came across a book I had illustrated for Scholastic, I had the opportunity to chat with the publishers and they even gave me a copy to take. Ireland had a stand at the fair made up of a collective of Irish publishers and Children’s Books Ireland. This was our little home away from home that we would constantly return to.

My tips for anyone heading to the fair, is just soak up the atmosphere. Enjoy the chaos and just introduce yourself to everyone. Pop Business cards in all the publisher’s stands. You never know what will catch their eye. And make sure you have a lot of luggage weight allowance, for all the books you will bring home!”

Alice Guidi

Isabel Tong

“I’m thrilled to have met my agent Lucie and her artists during my trip to Bologna. As always, it was a fantastic event! One of the standout moments for me was the excitement surrounding the Survival Corner. It was inspiring to see such enthusiasm!”

Lizzy Metcalfe

“I had such an amazing time in Bologna this year meeting so many wonderfully talented people. Things I learnt whilst I was there:

• Chat to everyone and make new friends! Everyone there shares your passion for beautiful books so you’re in great company even when you’re standing in a lengthy queue! 
• Wear comfy shoes…! Lots of walking so this is my top tip! 
• Share postcards with other illustrators – I came home with a collection of beautiful artworks and you get to chat to other artists which was brilliant! 
• Make sure you visit the gorgeous book shop both at the fair and in Bologna and above all… make time for some fun! 

Can’t wait for next year! Lizzy x”

Catherine McArdle

“SUPRISES:

1. A very magical Luddington Creative moment to be announced…

2. Seeing the amazing Sydney Smith speak – what a legend! 

3. Getting on the bus to the fair at 9:15 on Wednesday and there were SEATS!!

WHAT I LEARNT (actually I already know but always forget)

There are two queues for food in Italy – make sure you are in the right one! 

HIGHLIGHT

Seeing Lucie in her natural habitat with fire in her belly and a spring in her step.”

Illustration, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart

As we wrap up our Bologna adventure, I’m left feeling incredibly proud of the Luddington Creatives. Their talent, passion, and openness to connect and grow is what makes this agency such a special place. From insightful reflections to spontaneous sketches, they’ve each captured the spirit of the fair in their own way, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to have them on this journey.

Bologna is always a whirlwind, but it’s one that leaves your heart full, your notebook packed with ideas, and your suitcase heavier with beautiful books and memories. Here’s to more adventures, more art, and the brilliant buzz that happens when creativity comes together.

Grazie Bologna, and until next year, keep sketching, keep sharing, and keep believing in the power of illustration.

Lucie x