BOTREN
Botren is a Bulgarian sculptor and monumentalist whose work explores materiality, spirituality, and identity. His sculptures bridge ancient history and contemporary abstraction, creating a sustained dialogue between viewer and artwork that examines the human condition and questions of belonging.
Working primarily in bronze, Botren achieves a wide range of visual effects, from smooth flowing curves, to textured finishes. In his later work, the artist adopts a cleaner, more distilled aesthetic, revealing a deeper dive into the metaphysical dimensions of existence. Through a meditative, methodical process, he stretches the possibilities of the materials he uses. Some of his sculptures appear to float, balanced on impossibly thin supports as if dissolving into space, while others represent literal and metaphorical links between the ephemeral and the ethereal. The strategic use of ‘cuts’ and surface textures creates an intricate visual conversation about balance. His technical skill allows him to realize complex ideas while maintaining structural integrity and visual coherence.
Botren’s works are timeless. They carry weight, both physical and conceptual, drawing the viewer into an ongoing philosophical discussion. The artist poses the questions "where do we belong" and "what does it mean to belong" embracing the process and the journey rather than expecting answers.
SELECTED WORKS
BIO
BOTREN
Born: 1963, Sofia, Bulgaria
Education
1993 - Master of Arts in Sculpture, National Art Academy, Sofia
1989 - Bachelor of Arts in Ceramics and Glass, National Art Academy, Sofia
'My work is driven by emotions, not events. Finding the exact form of the sensations you experience is a long process. When I achieve it, I find peace.'
Botren is a Bulgarian sculptor and monumentalist whose work explores materiality, spirituality, and identity through bronze.. His sculptures bridge ancient history and contemporary abstraction, creating works that examine the human condition and questions of belonging.
This philosophy guides Botren's approach to sculpture as a means of translating feeling into form, with each piece representing a carefully considered emotional investigation given permanent expression.
PUBLIC COMMISSIONS
“Az, Buki, Vedi” (The Cyrillic Monument) Location: National Palace of Culture, Sofia, Bulgaria
“Know Yourself” Location: Yambol, Bulgaria As Botren reflects on this installation:
“Pilgrimage of Dreams” Location: Bulgarian National Radio, Sofia, Bulgaria
Upcoming: “Slovo” (Words/Speech) Location: Budapest, Hungary
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS
2013 Allegra Gallery, Sofia Tender Presence, Dual Show
2013 Espace Daniel‑Sorano, Paris Botren Sculpture, Solo Show
2013 Cultural Centre, Dupnitsa Third Millennium, Group Exhibition
2014 Espace Daniel‑Sorano, Paris Botren Sculpture, Solo Show
2014 Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Brussels Group Exhibition
2015 Boris Christoff Music Center, Sofia No polish, or like a joke, Group Exhibition
2016 Regional Administration, Yambol Solo Exhibition
2019 “George Papazov” Gallery, Yambol Solo Exhibition
2025 Ministry of Culture Gallery, Sofia Solo Exhibition
Botren is brought to D Contemporary through a collaboration with Niya Ruseva.
Niya Ruseva is a London-based art historian and curator whose practice centres on creating immersive spaces where art becomes a shared language of connection and curiosity. She holds a BA in History of Art from University College London and an MA in Art Business from Sotheby’s Institute of Art, graduating with Distinction and receiving the Director’s Commendation.
Working across the curatorial, commercial, and auction sectors, Niya brings a multifaceted perspective to her projects, bridging artistic vision with thoughtful audience engagement. Her exhibitions, including Hold Me Closer by Thomas Hjelm, Trees Are For Life by LUAP, and Shadows and Grace by Matto Mariotti, explore ideas of belonging, identity, and human presence within contemporary culture. She has also contributed writing to Made in Bed magazine, reflecting her ongoing interest in dialogue and critical reflection within the contemporary art field.
Through her curatorial approach, Niya seeks to challenge conventional boundaries and encourage viewers to immerse themselves fully in the exhibition space. Her work reflects a commitment to accessibility, collaboration, and the belief that art should be experienced with all senses.