Hristo Smirnenski — Portrait
Poetry with tenderness, irony and a restless heart.
Hristo Smirnenski remains one of the distinctive voices of Bulgarian literature — a poet whose words can feel delicate and lyrical in one moment, sharp and socially aware in the next.
This illustration is part of my ARTRIOTI collection — a series dedicated to Bulgarian writers, artists and cultural figures whose work continues to live far beyond its time.
Why I drew him
Because there is something incredibly alive in Smirnenski’s writing.
He could find beauty in sadness, humour in hardship and tenderness in places where you least expect it.
His work feels young, emotional and deeply human — and that is exactly what I wanted to keep in this portrait.
The T-shirt
- 100% organic ring-spun cotton
- Soft and comfortable for everyday wear
- Unisex fit
- Original illustration by Svetlomira Minkova
- Printed to order in Sofia
Fit note: Women may prefer 1–2 sizes smaller for a more fitted silhouette.