"Breast milk (Audience Award2016)" Painting

Zenko Karda is an established contemporary painter and internationally published illustrator whose work is a profound, deeply personal journey between reality and fantasy. Rooted in the rich cultural landscapes of Transylvania, her artistic vision has been shaped from an early age by ancestral roots, ancient traditions, and the mystical world of folk tales that have accompanied her throughout her entire life.With a prolific career spanning the illustration of over 50 books published globally—including titles in the United States, the United Kingdom, Romania, Moldova, and Hungary—Karda is a master of visual storytelling. This extensive background in narrative art deeply influences her canvas paintings. She decodes ancient symbols and traditional storytelling, using them as the foundational fabric of her visual language.However, her work is far from a simple, nostalgic reproduction of folklore. Karda juxtaposes the enchanting innocence of fairy tales against the hyper-reality and excessive romanticism of the modern world. In this tension, her narratives shift: the traditional tale becomes a mirror for contemporary society, subtly infused with cynical overtones and absurd, surreal elements.Zenko Karda’s powerful, thought-provoking art has achieved widespread international recognition. Alongside her extensive publishing history, her paintings have been showcased in numerous prestigious exhibitions across Europe and beyond, including major art centers in Budapest (Hungary), Turkey (Ankara, Izmir), the United Kingdom (Manchester), and Mexico. Her work appeals to collectors who seek art with profound narrative depth, cultural weight, and a sharp, contemporary edge.