Bulgarian modernism emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting a shift in artistic and literary expression. It sought to break away from traditional forms and embrace new ideas, often influenced by European movements like Symbolism and Futurism. Writers and artists aimed to explore individual experiences and emotions, leading to innovative styles and themes. Key figures in Bulgarian modernism include poets like Geo Milev and Elisaveta Bagryana, who experimented with language and form. This movement also extended to visual arts, with painters such as Vladimir Dimitrov contributing to a distinct national identity while engaging with modernist principles.