Hvar Bodypainting returns on June 13-14, 2026. International artists, live competitions, workshops, family-friendly activities and creative events will take place across stunning Hvar locations.
Hvar Bodypainting 2026 | Art on Living Canvases
Hvar Bodypainting returns to Hvar on June 13-14, 2026, transforming the town once again into a vibrant stage for creativity, innovation and artistic expression on living canvases.
Organized in collaboration with Alex Barendregt, founder of the World Bodypainting Festival, the event guarantees a high standard of artistic excellence and an international atmosphere. The project is led by Lorena Matas, with the support of partners and sponsors.
International Artists and Competition Program
This year’s edition brings together renowned bodypainting artists from various countries around the world. Over two days, they will create impressive artworks at several attractive locations throughout Hvar and the Pakleni Islands.
Bodypainting is a contemporary art form in which the human body becomes a moving masterpiece. The festival blends performance, fashion, photography and visual arts, creating a dynamic and interactive experience open to all visitors.
Festival Program
Festival entry is free, excluding workshops and seminars. Visitors can enjoy a diverse and engaging program including live bodypainting competitions, award presentations, children’s activities, live music and a special illusion show by one of the world’s most renowned bodypainting artists.
Day 1 | Saturday, June 13, 2026
The festival begins at the island of Jerolim at Magomago Hvar, where the Bodypainting Competition will take place from 10:00 to 20:00. Under the theme “Stories in Wonderland”, international artists will transform the human body into extraordinary living artworks inspired by imagination, fantasy and visual storytelling.
In the evening, the program continues at Veli Đardin in Hvar Town at 20:00 with the Award Presentation Ceremony, celebrating the most outstanding artistic achievements of the competition.
At the same time, visitors and families can enjoy a dedicated kids program featuring clowns, mascots, stilt walkers and hair tattoo activities, along with live music and a vibrant festival atmosphere in the heart of Hvar.
Day 2 Sunday, June 14, 2026
On the second day, the festival moves to the beautiful surroundings of Palmižana, where a Bodypainting Jam Session will take place from 10:00 to 20:00 at Laganini. Artists, models and photographers will gather in one of the Adriatic’s most scenic locations for an open-air creative session surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pakleni Islands.
The grand finale takes place at Carpe Diem Town Hvar at 21:30, featuring a spectacular Live Illusion Show by Johannes Stötter. Known worldwide for his breathtaking illusion artworks that blend the human body with nature, Johannes Stötter will present a unique performance and one of the festival’s main highlights.
Hvar as a Destination of Art and Experience
For two days, Hvar will be filled with colour, creativity and positive energy, offering a unique public art experience in a spectacular Mediterranean setting.
Events like Hvar Bodypainting further position Hvar as a destination for cultural and creative festivals in the pre-season. The combination of world-class artistry, live performance and stunning coastal scenery makes this festival a truly memorable experience for both participants and visitors.
Whether you are an art enthusiast, a festival lover, a photographer, a family traveller or simply looking for an inspiring weekend escape, Hvar Bodypainting 2026 is an event not to be missed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Hvar Bodypainting 2026 taking place?
Hvar Bodypainting Festival 2026 takes place on June 13-14, 2026, across several unique locations in Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands.
Is there an entrance fee for the festival?
Festival entry is free for all visitors. Participation fees may apply only for selected workshops and seminars.
Where does the bodypainting competition take place?
The main Bodypainting Competition will be held on June 13 at Jerolim at Magomago Hvar, where visitors can watch international artists create live body art masterpieces throughout the day.
What is the theme of the 2026 competition?
The official theme of the competition is “Stories in Wonderland”, inspiring artists to create imaginative and visually striking bodypainting designs.
What activities are available for children?
The festival includes a dedicated children’s program featuring clowns, mascots, stilt walkers and hair tattoo activities, making it a family-friendly event for visitors of all ages.
Where is the Bodypainting Jam Session held?
The Bodypainting Jam Session takes place on June 14 at Laganini, Palmižana, bringing together artists, models and photographers in a unique island setting.
Who is Johannes Stötter?
Johannes Stötter is one of the world’s most acclaimed bodypainting artists, internationally recognized for his extraordinary illusion artworks that blend the human body with nature. He will perform a special Live Illusion Show at Carpe Diem Town Hvar on June 14.
Is Hvar Bodypainting suitable for families?
Yes. Hvar Bodypainting Festival welcomes visitors of all ages and offers a combination of art, entertainment, live performances, music and children’s activities.
Why visit Hvar during the Bodypainting Festival?
Hvar Bodypainting Festival combines world-class artistic performances, Mediterranean scenery, cultural experiences and outdoor events, creating one of the most unique festivals in Croatia and the Adriatic region.
