We invite you to an unusual meeting with 45 beloved and unforgettable Bulgarians. A meeting made possible thanks to Violeta Tsvetkova – a long-time journalist in the field of culture. Her hundreds of interviews, conducted over the years of work for various Bulgarian publications, inspired the creation of the book Alone with the Unforgettables. It brings to life not-so-grumpy old men, ageless favorites, inimitable ladies and unforgettable inspirers – personalities who are no longer with us, but continue to excite generations with their talent and spiritual heritage. Among them are actors, directors, writers, musicians and other cultural figures who have left a lasting mark on Bulgarian memory.
This meeting is even more special for us because it is an occasion to honor one of the people in the book. Her name is Salza Petkanova (1921 – 1997).
Raised under the wing of writers Konstantin and Magda Petkanovi, Salza is a polyglot, philosopher, psychologist, specialist in librarianship and African art. She was the first research associate at the University Library of Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”. In 1965, she was sent as a specialist to Ghana. Later, she became deputy director and later director of the Library of the University of Ghana in Accra, where she spent almost a decade. She returned to Bulgaria with a rich collection of works of African art. A significant part of it is now owned by the Museum of Humor. The collection of ritual masks and figurines is one of the most valuable investments that the Museum of Humor and Satire has made over the years.
This year marks thirty years since Violeta Tsvetkova’s interview with the cosmopolitan Salza Petkanova. This coincidence gives us a wonderful opportunity, along with meeting the charming Violeta and the presentation of her book Alone with the Unforgettables, to show you part of the collection, consisting of small bronze figures, gold measures and masks, mostly from the 18th and 19th centuries. The unique African pieces are not just exhibits, but bearers of centuries-old wisdom, with which Salza Petkanova introduces us in her books and research.
You will hear more about this and other inspiring meetings, about the voices behind the words and about the memories that do not fade – from Violeta Tsvetkova herself.
Come on September 25 (Thursday) at 5:30 p.m. to the Library of the Museum of Humor.
An evening full of stories, spirit and warmth awaits you, which only living memory can awaken.