Memorial Cartoon Exhibition Opens in Honor of the Late Cartoonist Damir Novak

🇭🇷 A memorial cartoon exhibition dedicated to the late Croatian cartoonist Damir Novak opened on June 5, 2026, in Mali Mihaljevec, Croatia, bringing together family members, fellow artists, local officials, and cartoon enthusiasts to celebrate the life and extraordinary artistic legacy of one of Croatia’s most respected cartoonists.

The exhibition presents a carefully selected collection of Novak’s cartoons, highlighting his decades-long career marked by sharp wit, social commentary, and a distinctive artistic style. His works, admired both in Croatia and abroad, continue to resonate with audiences through their humor and humanity.

During the opening ceremony, Novak’s granddaughter, Emily Makšadi, paid an emotional tribute to her grandfather. She emphasized that although his artistic achievements were remarkable, his greatest legacy was the warmth, kindness, and joy he shared with those around him.

Representatives of local authorities praised Novak’s outstanding contribution to Croatian culture and announced that he had been posthumously awarded the prestigious Zrinski Award in recognition of his lifelong dedication to art and his lasting influence on the cultural identity of the Međimurje region.

Throughout his distinguished career, Damir Novak received 95 national and international awards. His cartoons were exhibited and honored across Europe, Asia, and North America, earning him international recognition and a special place within the global cartoon community.

Beyond his achievements as an artist, Novak was also a passionate organizer and promoter of cartoon art. He founded and organized the International Cartoon Festival in Čakovec and the Humor Days in Mali Mihaljevec, events that helped strengthen Croatia’s position on the international cartoon scene.

The memorial exhibition stands not only as a celebration of an exceptional cartoonist but also as a heartfelt tribute to a man whose humor, creativity, and humanity continue to inspire generations of artists and readers around the world.