Budapest, Hungary’s capital is a good embodiment of the colourful and wonderful country. Budapest is a mesmerizing mixture of modern and classical architecture creating a sense of wonder as people walk its streets. Thanks to György Palkó, an architectural photographer and videographer, now you can hold this jaw-dropping beauty in your hands in the form of a book.
György Palkó is one of the most well-known architectural photographers in Hungary and he was one of the first Hungarian photographers to work for the renowned company, Zaha Hadid Architects, Roadster.hu writes.
György Palkó is about to publish a book that will feature some of the most stunning architectural wonders of Budapest. His new book will include 50+1 projects that will certainly make you want to visit the Hungarian capital city. Additionally, for each project, belongs a guide about the given building.
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
István Ujlaky-Gazdag asked the photographer about his drive to create and undertake such a large project to showcase the wide scope of buildings and architecture of the Hungarian capital.
György Palkó answered, that one of his greatest inspirations was New Architecture Los Angeles. This book, photographed by Mike Kelley György’s mentor, immediately ignited a spark in the Hungarian photographer’s imagination as he first held it in his hands.
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
He told Roadster that: “his [Kelley’s] book showcasing 50 buildings of Los Angeles was published two years ago, but the series includes books about New York and London too. I think it sounds quite impressive that Budapest could be the fourth book in this series.”
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
The photographer also highlighted that one of his target audiences is foreigners. Tourists are already fascinated to explore the Danube banks and the historical buildings of the Hungarian capital, but it feels great to show what architects have added to the city in the past two decades, György said.
In order to fulfill his vision, Görgy Palkó beseeched the help of professionals. He contacted Anett Mizsei, who composed the textual elements of the book.
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
György collaborated on the project with Krisztina Somogyi and Déniel Kovács to provide an accurate guide to the 50+1 buildings to be included in the final book. Last, but not least, Balázs Sipos also assisted the renowned photographer to make his vision manifest.
The book was made all throughout 2021 with over 103 photoshoots and 15,000 frames and with the help of the tireless work of his professional team, his website reported.
Source: György Palkó architectural photographer and videographer
If you would like to purchase this book featuring all the architectural wonders of Budapest, you can do so by visiting György Palkó’s website.
The book is available both in English and in Hungarian. They are expected to be ready for shipping around the second half of January. If you would like to know more about György Palkó’s work, you can follow his latest projects on his Facebook page or on his Instagram.
The sixth edition of Xposure International Photography Festival, a premier global event dedicated to celebrating the art of photography, will host 57 of the world’s leading photographers who will showcase their unique works that demonstrate the breadth of contemporary image-making and storytelling and reflects their exceptional experiences and adventures.
Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB),the festival, which will be held over seven days, from February 9 to 15 at Expo Centre Sharjah, will host individual and group art exhibitions by photographers from countries around the world, as well as an integrated programme of inspirational talks, training and educational workshops to suit skillsets of varied age groups. In addition, portfolio reviews will be conducted by accomplished, award-winning photographers.
Candid and posed portraits and images of daily life captured with the technical brilliance of composition and technique are a hallmark of the images that will be on display at Xposure 2022.
the week-long festival this year will present Magnum member Steve McCurry, whose body of work covers conflict, as well as ancient traditions and cultures. His iconic ‘Afghan Girl’ portrait taken in 1985 had captured the story of a country, its people, and refugees across the world.
Visitors can also view the works of multi-award winning Biljana Jurukovski from Macedonia whose images create discussions about different cultures and respect for traditions; Chris Rainier, who has committed himself to documenting traditional societies who live on the margins of the natural world; Daniel Kordan, a landscape and travel photographer from Russia famed for his breathtaking landscapes; and the stunning documentary images of George Georgiou, a British photojournalist.
Other noted artists featured include Gonçalo Fonseca, a documentary photographer from Lisbon, Portugal, who sheds light on under-reported issues and Jordan Hammond, whose modern style of travel photography mixes diverse cultures, colour, light and landscapes; while Vineet Vohra, a self-taught photographer and London-based Alan Schaller who specialises in black and white photography, will share their passion for street photography.
Tariq Zaidi, who documents social issues and inequality within various societies across the globe, and Vidhyaa Chandramohan, a photojournalist who focuses on stories on women and culture in the UAE, will also be at the 2022 edition of Xposure.
Photo: Xposure International Photography Festival
Several internationally recognised nature and wildlife photographers will showcase compelling stories through their works in this popular and versatile genre at Expo Centre Sharjah.
American photographer Joel Sartore, founder of The Photo Ark, whose works focus on conservation photography will showcase images of his ongoing project that documents some of the most endangered creatures left on Earth; while Michel Rawicki who has been documenting the changing landscape of the North and South poles will offer great insights into a region that is at the heart of climate change.
On exhibit will be works of Aaron Gekoski, an award-winning environmental photojournalist specialising in human-animal conflict; Belgian photographer Alain Schroeder who has drawn attention to critically endangered species like the orangutans; and Lurie Belegurschi, who has captured the power, majesty and vulnerability of the spectacular landscapes of the Arctic Region.
Other photographers featured in this category include Levon Biss, best known for his extreme macro work; Mogens Trolle, Danish mammal researcher turned wildlife photographer and the winner of the Animal Portraits category of the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2020 competition; and Jasper Doest, a National Geographic contributor whose visual stories explore the relationship between humankind and nature.
Six photographers specialising in underwater environments to turn the spotlight on marine conservation includes Brian Skerry, David Doubilet, Jennifer Hayes, Jeffrey Garriock,Daryl Owen, and Laurent Ballesta.
Xposure 2022 will feature several award-winning photographers who bring out the dynamism of buildings and urban architecture with carefully conceived shots that strike a balance between composition and geometry.
Andrew Prokos, a New York City-based fine art photographer and a master of long-exposure photography will showcase his finely detailed images that incorporate architectural elements and sweeping natural and urban views; UAE-based Sajin Sasidharan will showcase his knowledge of composition, light and natural elements in his black and white photography; and Steven Brooke, an active participant in historic preservation, will draw attention to the principles of composition and artistic integrity that have guided his work.
Majid Abdalla Al Bastaki, an architectural photographer born and raised in Sharjah, will showcase images that capture the culture, art and beauty of the emirate while Iwan Baan captures the many ways people shape their shared built environment — from high-architecture to handmade homes.
Prominent photojournalists who examine the human experience through the lens of their unique personal vision, skills, and technique, include James Nachtwey, an American photographer who documents wars and critical social issues; Muhammed Muheisen, a two-time Pulitzer Prize-winner who has been highlighting the refugee crisis around the world; Omar Havana, Spanish photojournalist; Jana Andert, Czech photographer and filmmaker who focuses on conflict zones and humanitarian issues; and Kiran Ridley, whose reportage work is primarily concerned with issues of migration, human rights and political representation.
Sergey Ponomarev, whose works have depicted the European refugee crisis as well as wars and conflicts in the Middle East; Debi Cornwall, a conceptual documentary artist and filmmaker; Diego IbarraSánchez, a documentary photographer based in Lebanon; Bangladesh-based Ibrahim Iqbal, who has won more than 300 awards at the national and international levels; and Frank Fournier, a deeply humanistic photographer who has produced extraordinary work on the civil war in Lebanon, will also be at Xposure 2022.
A host of accomplished artists will be part of Xposure 2022 to convey stories and emotions through a range of workshops and seminars that discuss their works depicting landscapes, portraits, culture, food, cities, towns, and more, from varied geographical locations from around the globe. Prominent photographers who have captured and documented the essence of a distant place in a single frame include, amongst others, Chris Coe, Andrew Semark, Elia Locardi, and David Newton.
Other participating photographers include America’s most iconic photographer Stephen Wilkes, who is widely recognised for his fine art, editorial and commercial work; Slovenian fine art photographer photographer Beno Saradzic; Egyptian Syrian astrophotographer Samy Al Olabi; motorcycle journalist Neale Bayly; accomplished media expert Aidan J Sullivan, commercial photographer Mike Browne; successor to the Surrealist photographic tradition, Spanish artist García de Marina; Colin Hawkins, who specialises in people and product photography; and Ray Wells, the Sunday Times Picture Editor.
Robin Morgan, founder and CEO of Iconic Images of London and Los Angeles; Kathy Moran, National Geographic Deputy Director of Photography; Whitney Johnson, Vice President of Visual and Immersive Experiences at National Geographic; Luca Venturi, Founder and Art Director of the Siena International Photo Awards and of the Drone Photo Awards; and Lars Boering, founder of Triggertale.com – a platform for visual communication, are amongst the other prominent names participating in Xposure 2022.
Hungary and the Hungarian capital are wonderful even in the winter. It is worth visiting and taking a walk despite the cold. Mulled wine consumed at a Christmas market during a walk in the Christmas period easily warmed us up. However, what do we do after Christmas if we want a break while exploring the city? We will show you some super tea houses.
In the Vörös Oroszlán (Red Lion) located at Jókai Square in the 6th district, you can taste special teas. The goal of the tea house is to find a way to ourselves and each other. In the Red Lion, the fabulous design and concealed parts create perfect comfort. In one of the oldest tea houses in Budapest, you can also taste herbal teas, lapaho, and mate teas.
“The main considerations are variety, versatility, cosiness, and comfort.”
You can taste almost 80 types of teas or special coffees. You can either sit on a chair or cushion or lie down in the gallery. Thanks to the children’s castle and bookshelf, you can not only warm up but also recharge mentally.
According to many, Váci Street is one of the busiest parts of Budapest. However, the 1000TEA refutes this as you will find yourself in a new world by entering here. It is not only a tea house but also a shop where you can ask questions and get answers. You can get everything from classic teas through supplements to special flavours. You can also sample Chinese, Indian, Ceylon, and Japanese teas. You can choose a beanbag chair or you can even sit on the terrace in good weather.
Let’s move a little to Buda and the Flying Bird Tea House.
The Flying Bird is a shop, webshop, tea house, and educational venue at the same time.
There are many blog posts on the website, so you can not only drink teas but also learn about them. Tea-making and tasting is a ritual here. For this reason, they prefer to use the term Tea Club or Tea Room. After all, drinking tea is a community experience. You can also buy wonderful ceramics and authentic accessories.
The outdoor exhibition featuring the best photos of the first two years of the Hungary 365 photo contest is open between 18 December 2021 and 19 January 2022.
The Hungary 365 photo contest was initiated by the Government of Hungary in cooperation with the Hungarian Tourism Agency, the National Association of Large Families, and the Hungarian Ramblers’ Association with the aim to showcase the country’s values, diversity, thousands of shades and beauty.
A highly successful initiative
In the last three years, Hungary 365 has grown into the largest photo competition in the country, with almost 37,000 photos submitted by amateur and professional photographers in three categories this year, explained Parliamentary State Secretary at the Cabinet Office of the Prime Minister Csaba Dömötör at the exhibition’s press conference on Saturday.
The applicants could submit photos or photo series in the categories of nature and landscape, built and material heritage and scenes of everyday life. All category, special prize, audience prize winner photos are available on the official website of Hungary 365.
Hungary 365 Photo Exhibition
The outdoor exhibition on the Danube Promenade – on the section between Vigadó Square and Március 15. Square – features
200 photos have been selected from altogether 50,000 photographs from the first two years of the competition.
The exhibited work allows people to learn a lot about photography and Hungary as well, said photographer Ottó Kaiser, chairman of the jury of Hungary 365. Most of the photos were printed on backlit film, so visitors can also admire them in the evening, writes Hvg.
Photo: www.facebook.com/kormanyzat
Photo: www.facebook.com/kormanyzat
“Even though these photos show different sides of Hungary, they all convey a common message: we live in a country that we can be proud of. In a country that, despite everyday difficulties, we can look forward to the future with hope and confidence,”
With this exhibition, and old plan and dream of the Hungary 365 team has finally come true. The exhibition featuring the best 60 photos of the competition’s third year can be visited in the Eiffel Workshop of the Hungarian State Opera House until 22 December.
You can watch HírTV’s video about the exhibition below:
In one of their latest creative projects, Animatiqua studio “reconstructed” Budapest’s buildings that were demolished in World War II or the Hungarian Revolution of 1956.
In Budapest, many buildings have fallen victim partly to the destruction of World War II and partly to the political concepts related to the “Sovietisation” after 1945, explains Sándor Sólymos, associate professor at the Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design and the former vice-rector of the Hungarian University of Fine Arts.
Devastation of World War II
Between 24 December 1944 and 13 February 1945, the Soviet troops of the 2nd Ukrainian Front laid siege to Budapest for 50 days. The siege of Budapest was one of the most brutal and bloodiest battles of World War II, as a result of which
27% of the capital’s nearly 40,000 buildings were destroyed or severely damaged, including the building of the Pesti Vigadó, the Royal Palace, the Academy of Music, and the National Theatre’s original building, located on Kerepesi Street.
The Germans also destroyed all of the Danube bridges, adds Múlt-kor. Today, due to the construction of the metro, there is only a square on the site of the old building of the National Theatre. However, the real reason the building was not reconstructed was that the theatre served as the embodiment of the nation and tradition, and it was in the way of the Soviet regime, writes Hello Magyar. According to PestBuda, other buildings also fell victim to ideological destruction. For example, the building of the Royal Stable and the Royal Riding Hall in Csikós Courtyard were demolished after the war.
Within the framework of a special project, Animatiqua studio selected numerous photos from the collection of Fortepan, a free, curated Online Photography Archive, and transformed them into motion picture animations, thus bringing Budapest’s buildings that were demolished in World War II or the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 back to life.
The production took almost 600 hours, and about 30 photos were animated, in some cases using 3D technology.
The parts obscured by trees, people or vehicles were replaced or recreated from other sources, relying on repetitive patterns.
The old building of the National Theatre, the building of the Headquarters of the Defense Forces, the monumental Industrial Hall in the City Park, the Church of Mary Magdalene, and the tram tracks on the former Elisabeth Bridge are just a few of the lost buildings that come to life in the mesmerising videos.
The photos span about a hundred years, from the middle of the 19th century to World War II.
Are you proud of your Hungarian roots? Would you like to learn more about Hungarian culture, education, and society while enjoying a two-week-long journey in Budapest? Then Reconnect Hungary is the perfect community for you. Enjoy all these benefits and gain a once in a lifetime experience with the Hungarian Birthright Program.
Since 1976, the New York-based Hungarian Human Rights Foundation has been working hard to deepen Hungarian-American connections. On the basis of this principle, they created the unmissable educational and social immersion program, the Hungarian Birthright Trip. The special educational program is from the mastermind of Allison Pataki, a New York Times best-selling author, whose primary mission is to provide an opportunity for young adults of Hungarian-American origin to learn more about their Hungarian roots and deepen their knowledge about the local culture and heritage.
Photo: www.facebook.com/ReConnectHungary/
The special program of ReConnect Hungary consists of three phases, during which
participants can visit Budapest and become a valued member of the global Hungarian community.
Photo: www.facebook.com/ReConnectHungary/
The Hungarian Birthright Program is available for young adults of Hungarian-Americans/Canadian decent, between the ages of 18 and 28. Applicants can enjoy the following benefits of the unique scholarship program: pre-trip online course, orientation day in New York, roundtrip airfare, and taxes between New York and Budapest, the transportation and accommodation fees, three meals a day, all entrance fees to museums and historical sites, as well as tour guides in Hungary.
After the pre-trip preparation, participants can take part in a two-week-long journey from New York to Budapest. This educational trip enables them to discover the cultural and historical treasures of Budapest and learn more about their Hungarian roots. In addition, the Hungarian Birthright Program provides them an opportunity to strengthen their Hungarian identity and become a valued member of the global Hungarian community. The program is supported by Hungarian, American, and Canadian organisations and the Government of Hungary.
Photo: www.facebook.com/ReConnectHungary/
If you would like to strengthen your dual identity and get a once in a lifetime experience in Hungary, do not wait any longer.
Applications are opening soon for next year’s Birthright trip that will take place between 28th July and 12th August 2022.
Photo: www.facebook.com/ReConnectHungary/
After the unforgettable two-week-long trip in Hungary, your journey will still go on with the ReConnect community. Thanks to this social network, you can stay connected to the global Hungarian community and deepen your Hungarian connections with the ReConnect Hungary Team.
For more details, visit the official website of ReConnect Hungary where you can discover further exciting programs, including the ReConnect Transylvania summer trip and the ReConnect Transylvania+ if you are interested in a 3-6-month-long internship.
The category and main winners of the Budapest International Foto Awards 2021 edition have been announced from thousands of international entries. The esteemed jury panel saw remarkable works of photography, transporting us across the globe to breathtaking places and to meet interesting people and stories from the most distinct cultures.
Founder of the BIFA, Mr. Hossein Farmani, shared his thoughts on this year’s winning entries, “Creativity knows no boundaries or borders, and this is especially true for this year’s BIFA entries. The immense effort to bring us brilliant images from all over the world helps us see and understand not only our surroundings, but how other cultures live as well. In a time when travel is harder, these kind of images are more valuable than ever.”
Svetlana Melik-Nubarova – Our Past Photo: budapestfotoawards.com
Photographer of the Year, Svetlana Melik-Nubarova took the main prize in the Professional categories for her thought-provoking work Our Past, where she dives into the workings of a dictatorship and the strong propaganda messages delivered early on from childhood.
Valter Darbe – I Was My Husband Photo: budapestfotoawards.com
Best New Talent of the Year, Valter Darbe provided us with a glimpse into orthodox Hindu culture, some aspects that cannot be changed by even the most modern Indian views. According to the more traditional views, a wife loses her “utility” when her husband passes. They are excluded from social gatherings and other activities, making them virtually invisible in the world.
George Mayer Studio – Black Dress Photo: budapestfotoawards.com
The BIFA Photographer of the Year will receive a $3,000 cash prize and the BIFA trophy and the BIFA New Talent of the Year will be awarded a $2,000 cash prize along with the BIFA trophy.
Main category winners will receive a $200 cash prize each. First Place and Main Category Winners will all enjoy international publicity throughout the year and have their works exhibited in Budapest and other countries.
BIFA’s mission is to promote the work of professional and emerging international photographers to the fast-growing artistic community of Budapest and across the world, putting them in the spotlight and providing them with a great platform to showcase their work.
The full list of 1st and 2nd place Category Winners, and gold, silver, and bronze winners in each of the competition’s categories, and Honorable Mentions from across both professional and amateur entries can be viewed on the BIFA website Winners Page.
“Hunting means pursuit of game, and forest murmurs, but rather forest murmurs.”
Half a century after his death, Zsigmond Széchenyi still needs no introduction, generations have grown up on his novels elaborating his domestic hunting experiences and his foreign expeditions with literary care. His works have gone through more than seventy editions in Hungarian language, one and a half million copies went to domestic readers. In addition to his novels, several statues, memorial stones and reliefs commemorate him, but hunters’ associations and schools also bear his name and the Hunting Museum in Hatvan also was named after him.
The little count used to hunt sparrows with his air rifle already at the age of seven in Sárpentele, Fejér County, hence his lifelong passion for hunting. It is also important to highlight his passion for collecting.
Although his world recorder addax trophy was destroyed in a World War II bombing raid, along with his collection of 1,300 trophies, but his hunting library, which at the time of his death numbered 3,000 volumes and can be considered a rarity even on a world scale, preserves the memory of a passionate collector.
The 20th century gave the count, who was raised as a noble in the monarchy, a strange fate.
In 1951, he was deported from Budapest, then he was imprisoned for eight months, later he became a “non-staff assistant” at the Helikon Library in Keszthely. But it was his hunting expertise and his popular works that allowed him to move back to the capital in the late 1950s.
His words full of evocative forcefulness show signs of a deep knowledge and passionate love of nature.
A never-ending curiosity manifests itself in his photographs, as well, not only towards the flora and fauna, but also towards the people he met on his travels, although he felt most at home away from civilisation, sitting by a campfire. These are photographs taken by a nature-loving humanist count, a book-collector handyman of noble birth, a hunter-writer-photographer, a complex man.
The Rosenstein restaurant in Budapest is becoming more and more frequently visited by Hollywood celebrities. Previously, it was Steven Spielberg, this week, it was Willem Dafoe and Mark Ruffalo – who are now shooting their new movie in Budapest – who tasted the local delicacies in the restaurant.
The world-famous Hollywood actors arrived in Budapest to shoot their latest movie, Poor Things, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos. The production stars such renowned actors as comedian Ramy Youssef and Emma Stone. During this period, Hollywood celebrities are spending months in Hungary, so we can easily bump into them on the streets of Budapest.
They are usually keen on trying Hungarian tastes, for which many of them choose a small family restaurant, the Rosenstein in Budapest’s 8th district.
This week, Willem Dafoe and Mark Ruffalo, along with the majority of the production’s staff, tried the local tastes there.
Photo: www.facebook.com/Rosenstein Vendéglő/
As Hungarian news portal Blikk reports, the group of celebrities started with a kosher homemade plum brandy. Mark Ruffalo ordered a goose liver, while Willem Dafoe started with a bowl of fish soup, followed by stuffed eggplant. Then, he chose a salad and fresh chanterelle mushrooms.” In addition, famous American comedian Ramy Youssef has also recently visited the restaurant with his girlfriend.
However, this is not the first time that Hollywood celebrities visit the Rosenstein restaurant.
Previously, Steven Spielberg also fell in love with the restaurant in Budapest,
which is proven by the fact that even the father of the famous director visited the diner to taste the legendary, delicious food recommended by his son.
“Spielberg’s favourite is the lamb shank remzl, which is like a potato pancake. He visited us a lot when he was shooting in Hungary. Half a year ago, an American man visited us and asked for Spielberg’s favourite dish. After the dinner, we started talking, and then it turned out that he was Spielberg’s dad, who was sent by his son to visit us when he was in Hungary.”
Photo: www.facebook.com/rosensteinpest/
The 78-year-old owner, “Uncle Tibi”, also revealed that the restaurant provides a separate room for Hollywood celebrities so that no one can disturb them. He said that similarly to the Spielbergs, Willem Dafoe and Mark Ruffalo also had a great time there and will probably return when they will shoot in Budapest again. The rest of the crew are repeat customers. After the special occasion, the guests were given a bottle of homemade brandy and a Rosenstein cookbook.
As their motto reflects, Rosenstein combines traditions, innovation, and family, offering an extensive menu of Hungarian specialities and Jewish classics. Being one of the greatest favourites of Hollywood celebrities, the restaurant boasts many international successes. Namely, it has been chosen by Dining Guide as the third-best restaurant in Budapest, and it was also listed among the family-run businesses that make Budapest (one of) the best cities in the world today. The Rosenstein coffee is among the favourites of foreigners visiting the Hungarian capital. Not to mention the famous Rosenstein pie that has been chosen as the latest profile picture of Google on Instagram.
Photo: www.facebook.com/rosensteinpest/
Uncle Tibi runs the family-style Rosenstein restaurant with his son. Róbert is very proud of his father, who – like a “terminator” – walks in every day to provide a warm welcome to their guests, in addition to the delicious delicacies.
The Capa Grand Prize Hungary is annually awarded to a photographer who works in any branch of photography, has been established professionally, and demonstrates a proven track record of outstanding talent. The Capa Center established the prize to emphasize its commitment to the creation of new artworks that enrich our society. The fellowships and the prize aim at furthering the development of the artists, and encouraging their future experimentation.
Exhibition until November 14
Éva Szombat has won the 2021 Capa Grand Prize with her entry called I Want Orgasms, Not Roses, the Robert Capa centre said on Friday. The exhibition of the competition’s entries runs until November 14, the statement said.
The series focuses on female sexuality, challenges taboos and reflects on issues surrounding the social standing of women,
the statement said. Szombat was one of three photographers to receive the Capa centre’s fellowship last year. Róbert László Bácsi’s documentarist photographs show the life of the residents of Nagorno-Karabah, a region of decade-long conflict and political uncertainty. Balázs Túrós’s series is about the life of his grandmother living with dementia.
The Winner of Capa Grand Prize Hungary 2021: Éva Szombat.
Éva Szombat: I Want Orgasms, Not Roses
I was 29 when I bought my first ever vibrator. I have always had fantasies about such objects but I was too shy to recognize them. When I found myself in a serious relationship I overcame that obstacle.
I played alone, we played together, I started to open up.
I photographed, posted and even exhibited said first vibrator. I was terrified of what other people would think but my world didn’t turn upside down after all.
https://blog.capacenter.hu/
https://blog.capacenter.hu/
https://blog.capacenter.hu/
https://blog.capacenter.hu/
In my whole life I’ve been more interested in sexuality than I dared to admit to myself. I believed it was bad manners for girls to be interested in such a thing so openly. I believed so, until I met people who would fearlessly talk about sex, masturbation, orgasms, the clitoris, porn and fantasies. It was liberating to belong to this group.
In 2017 I posted a public advertisement.
I was looking for people who would show their sex toys to the public.
To my great surprise many answered my call. They also had a strong desire to talk about their sexuality without shame. The contributors came from various walks of life: student, social worker, hairdresser, translator, artist, dominatrix, entrepreneur, employees, unemployed people, freelancers, wives, girlfriends, single people, divorcees, mothers-to-be, mothers and even a grandmother. In addition to taking pictures, I was conducting interviews, which let me dive deeper, dredging up serious traumas in more than one cases. I’ve learned something new after every single session.
While working on this project I found my grandmother’s memory book, which she got during World War II. The messages in it, that were meant to prepare one for life, often corresponded with the thoughts my participants had told me about their own inhibitions. These lines from many generations before, served as pointers for girls. They implied that
in case you were born a woman you should be modest, obedient, bear the pain and suffering.
The participants, just like myself, internalized these thoughts. My relationship to sexuality has changed a lot throughout the years and the project itself has changed with it. The objects became less and less important, as I became a lot more interested in the owners and their stories. I was looking for means to get rid of the shame connected to sexuality, overcome societal conventions and break free from inherited behavioural patterns. The toys became the key to establishing honest communication.
If the weather isn’t good enough to be outdoors, but you still want to leave your flat, it’s best to check out a special exhibit. The Hungarian capital, Budapest boasts a number of interesting, special exhibitions and museums. These museums are guaranteed to provide visitors with a lifelong experience.
You can see everything from 19th-century toys to the most modern machines in Budapest Pinball Museum. In the nearly 400-square-foot area, you can’t just watch the games, as they have more than 130 testable, playable machines. Arcades are no longer as popular as they were a few decades ago. So the museum showcasing pinball machines also serves as a kind of time machine.
Stunning lights, colours and sounds fly us back in time.
Owner Balázs Pálfi received the operating license in April 2013 to establish a museum exhibition space. He designed this exhibition to be exciting and enjoyable not only for pinball fanatics but also for those less familiar with the game. The museum in the 13th district of Budapest is open from Wednesday to Sunday. The machines can be used indefinitely after the one-time entrance fee, so you can leave your coins at home!
The Museum of Sweets and Selfies is Europe’s first sweet and selfie museum. On two levels, in a total area of 400 square metres, we can find many sets. You can create unique images here that you won’t even know which one to share on social media. Out of the 11 different rooms, everyone can find their favourite. Due to the great success, they have already opened a second place, as the owners do not run out of ideas.
“If you try what it’s like to lie in a tub full of money or gallop back in time on white horses and then drink your favourite coffee among meringues, this is the place for you!”
They are open every day of the week, and you can choose from different ticket types. In addition, it is possible to hold events and marketing photography.
The Zwack Museum and Visitor Centre can be visited in both Budapest and Kecskemét. The exhibition presenting the history of the Zwack family answers questions such as where the first neon signs in Hungary came from. In the exhibition space, we can also learn about the history of Unicum. The Unicom based on a secret recipe of more than 230 years. You can also check out special bottles and liqueur specialities. We can see the distillery building built in 1892, where the Unicum is made. Of course, tasting is also possible.
In the XI. district of Budapest, the 21st ARC exhibition can be seen in Bikás Park. The ARC has been creatively presenting ideas and opinions for 21 years. The exhibition is frequently thought-provoking, outrageous and funny.
This year, applicants can “give signs of life”
Hungary’s most visited public exhibition is available until October 17. The collection is in Újbuda, the XI. district of Budapest. This district is one of the best neighbourhoods in the world according to a British newspaper. “The ARC is best known for the annual ARC Competition and Exhibition. ARC has been about freedom of creativity since 2000. Anyone can apply, and the exhibitions are open for free, 24 hours a day,” writes arcmagazin.hu. This year, more than 1,000 entries were received. From these, a 19-member jury selects the winners.
This year’s theme of the competition was life signs.
The past year has held many hardships for people. As a result of which many have lost their jobs, family members, acquaintances. In addition, the division has increased, for example, in domestic politics, environmental protection and human rights. The ARC provides an opportunity for any individual to give a virtual sign of themselves and their opinions.
Divisive exhibition
“It is merely our existence, the signs of our lives, our breath, our body temperature, our touch, our vision and, of course, most of all: creativity. That we can give voice to what we believe in,” writes arcmagazin.hu. Mayor of Budapest, Gergely Karácsony, opened the exhibition in September. He said that he is a big fan of the ARC exhibition.
This year, the exhibition has become more divisive than usual.
Rajmund Junghausz is the Fidesz municipal representative of Újbuda. He expressed his displeasure on social media. In his post, he writes that he used to love the exhibition. But according to him, “the exhibition has become a distasteful provocation. The people who lead the municipality quietly assist to this and financially support this inciting, ultraliberal event. Shame.” After that, he said about the Újbuda special prize: “the artist displays a match as if only evil Nazis and dear rainbows were going to match,” writes Népszava.
Bulgaria is visited by many tourists every year. Most of them go for the beaches, but the rest of the country also offers exciting experiences. Bulgaria has a variety of programs on offer at all times of the year. We’ll show you the best programs that are worth trying as a Hungarian or wherever you come from.
Plovdiv
Photo: András Balogh/ Daily News Hungary
Photo: András Balogh/ Daily News Hungary
In 2010, the European Capital of Culture was represented by Pécs in Hungary. In 2023, Veszprém will become one of the cultural capitals. In 2019, Plovdiv, the second-largest city in Bulgaria, was the European Capital of Culture. In light of this, the ancient city has been renewed in many places. Its most significant sights are the theatre and stadium from the Roman era. The old town and the interactive Bishop’s Basilica of Philippopolis are also worth visiting.
Skiing
Photo: András Balogh/ Daily News Hungary
Photo: András Balogh/ Daily News Hungary
Skiing is becoming more and more popular in Hungary as well. Most people travel to Slovenia and Austria, but Bulgaria is also an excellent choice in this respect. In Bansko, there is a 1,500-metre level difference, and more than 48 kilometres of ski slopes are available. Bansko is a lesser-known destination, which is why the prices are much lower than in the popular western ski resorts. Among other things, alpine and biathlon competitions are held here regularly.
Tsarevets fortress — Veliko Tarnovo
Photo: András Balogh/ Daily News Hungary
Photo: András Balogh/ Daily News Hungary
The monumental Tsarevets fortress in Veliko Tarnovo shows what great power Bulgaria was. Veliko Tarnovo was the capital of the country twice. Thanks to its location on a hill and its strong walls, it was an almost impregnable fortress and withstood Turkish attacks for 3 months. In the Middle Ages, the struggles against the Turks were also a significant part of Hungary’s history. Tsarevets housed 400 houses, 22 churches, and 4 monasteries. The huge castle offers a fabulous view during the day, as well as some shade thanks to the trees, while at night, there are shows with colourful lights and music.
For many people, Bulgaria is immediately associated with the rose. The rose is one of the main symbols of Bulgaria. The Rose Valley, Rose Festival, and various preparations are known and loved all over the world. In the Damascena complex, you can visit the first private rose oil distillery. In a beautiful environment, we can learn about rose oil production, we can study different types of roses, and we can buy different lavender and rose products. If we get hungry, we will find a solution to this problem in the local restaurant.
Winery
Photo: András Balogh/ Daily News Hungary
Photo: András Balogh/ Daily News Hungary
Photo: András Balogh/ Daily News Hungary
We Hungarians are famous for loving good wines, and accordingly, we have great winemaking places. Tokaj, Villány, Eger, Badacsony are just some of the many Hungarian wineries. The same can be said for Bulgarians. There are also many famous wineries in Bulgaria. In addition to delicious wines, the Starosel complex pampers tourists and those wishing to relax with a hotel and a spa. Molerite Winery is a family business. Here, too, it is possible to stay, so we can taste as many kinds of wine and Bulgarian food as possible.
There is a saying that if a person goes abroad, the best way to get to know the country is to go to a local market. In a market we can get to know the local people, food and gastronomy. The Hungarian capital has many great markets. In these places, we can support the local economy and small farmers, and we can go to a restaurant or get the food we need at a reasonable price. That is the reason why we show the best markets in Budapest.
Lehel Hall
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The Lehel Hall in the 13th district stands out for its supply. While exploring a selection of fresh vegetables and fruits, we can also taste the potato lángos. There is also fried chicken, chilli pepper stand, fish and cheese stands. The primary producers are located in the middle, these stands should not be missed!
Roman coastal market
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https://www.instagram.com/p/CRlCP-fKmmz/
The Buda Roman coastal market is located on the banks of the Danube in Buda. The market is especially cosy in good weather, as the whole stretch of coastline is full of life. Families with small children, dog walkers, couples are all around. In this idyllic environment, we can choose from special oils and producer juices on the market.
Fény Street Market
The Fény Street Market is also located on the Buda side of the capital. This market is a little more expensive than the others, but the large selection makes up for it. Organic and PDO products can be purchased here. Nearly 150 stores and 100 primary producers on several levels will make sure you find what you need.
Rákóczi Square Market
Photo: Alpár Kató / Daily News Hungary
The market hall on Rákóczi Square was handed over on January 16, 1897. The designers were István Rozinay and Pál Klunzinger. In the 1930s, so few went to the market that it was a plan to convert the market into a swimming pool. This has not happened, but it has not been crowded ever since. Some like this, but others say that this is not the actual market experience.
In the market on Fehérvári street you can not only buy food, but also beautiful cut flowers. On the first floor of the two-storey hall there are canteens and restaurants, where you can even taste Hungarian fish soup. As it is completely covered, there is no need to worry about the weather disrupting your viewing experience.
Great Market Hall
Photo: Alpár Kató / Daily News Hungary
By the end, we left Budapest’s number one and most famous market, the Great Market Hall. Fascinating building, Danube panorama and fresh products await customers in the oldest market of the Hungarian capital, founded in 1897. Stuffed cabbage or Hortobágyi pancakes are a must-have for locals and tourists as well. With an area of more than 8000 square metres, you are sure to find something that you like. In addition to the products, you can admire the building designed by Samu Pecz.
Bulgaria is a very popular destination, not only for Hungarians. This is no surprise as beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and beaches await those wishing to vacation. We can get all this at an affordable price. With our list below, we present the programs that should be included on your Bulgarian bucket list.
Bulgaria has always been a popular destination for Hungarians and everyone else as well, but since Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007, tourism has flourished even more. Sandy beaches, blue sea, good prices, and a variety of programs await those looking to recharge in Bulgaria. We have collected some program points that are not worth missing out on when one is visiting Bulgaria.
1. Fire dance
Photo: András Balogh/Daily News HungaryPhoto: András Balogh/Daily News Hungary
Part of the Hungarian culture is, among other things, folk dance and the Busójárás, which is on the UNESCO list of intellectual heritage. Bulgarian fire dance offers a similar experience. This folk tradition is a mixture of ancient pagan and orthodox traditions. Music, dancing, folk food, and fire dance at the end of the evening are guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience for everyone.
2. Nessebar Old Town
Photo: András Balogh/Daily News HungaryPhoto: András Balogh/Daily News HungaryPhoto: András Balogh/Daily News Hungary
Nessebar is one of the most beautiful towns on the Bulgarian coast. The city is located on a peninsula in the old town. There is a church to visit in almost every corner of the Old Town. The settlement already existed in Roman times. From the 5-6th until the 18th century, almost every century is represented by a church. A famous attraction is the Windmill built in the Turkish era at the entrance of the peninsula. The Old Town was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1983.
3. Beach
Photo: András Balogh/Daily News HungaryPhoto: András Balogh/Daily News Hungary
We Hungarians love to bath. Numerous medicinal waters, thermal baths, and beautiful lakes accustom us to the love of water. Much of the Bulgarian coast is built out thanks to the boom in tourism. However, we can easily find less populated parts as well. Most hotels have their own beach area. The sandy beach and the clear water provide a great opportunity to relax, recharge, and play sports.
4. Historical park
Photo: András Balogh/Daily News HungaryPhoto: András Balogh/Daily News HungaryPhoto: András Balogh/Daily News Hungary
The Bulgarian Historical Park built near the town of Varna is a real rarity. The large area of the park meets culture, history, entertainment, and education. The park shows the lives of the people who have lived there for thousands of years. In the interactive exhibition, we can learn about the residence, equipment, burial sites, and weapons of the people living there in a beautiful setting. You can taste traditional food, cruise the lake, go horseback riding, or try archery.
5. In Love With The Wind Castle
Photo: András Balogh/Daily News HungaryPhoto: András Balogh/Daily News HungaryPhoto: András Balogh/Daily News Hungary
Looking at Ravadino Castle, we can feel like we are in a fairy tale. A local wealthy man has renovated the castle over the past two decades. A swan lake, pointed towers, fairytale creatures and a colourful garden enchant tourists.
5+1 Gastronomy
Photo: András Balogh/Daily News HungaryPhoto: András Balogh/Daily News Hungary
Fans of Hungarian cuisine will probably also like Bulgarian cuisine. The rich history has developed varied gastronomy. They eat a lot of vegetables, fruits, and fish. The dishes are prepared with a lot of spices and oil. In addition to food, Bulgarian wines are also delicious and popular.
“I have been following the lives of shepherds for several years in the historical region of Transylvania in Central Romania,” he told the Washington Post. “When walking in some parts of Transylvania,
one would often feel that you have traveled back in time.
There is hardly any sign of modern technology here, it is as if time had stopped, while beauty and nature are preserved. Sheep farming has been a tradition in this region for centuries.”
“This picture shows Alexandru and Peter, who are shepherds near Targu Mures locality,” he added. “They graze their animals near the Mures river,” he said.
You can check out the winning photos of all the categories following THIS link.
If you want to get out of your house but do not know what to do, the answer is simple: go to the zoo. No matter where you are in Hungary, you are guaranteed to find a good zoo nearby. Going to the zoo is an ideal program alone, with friends, with family, or for couples. Listed below are some zoos you are guaranteed not to be disappointed with.
The Nyíregyházi Zoo is located in the Sóstó resort area near Nyíregyháza. One of the largest animal herds in Europe awaits visitors. The zoo also has its own hotel called Hotel Jungle. There is also a beach bath, a village museum, and a park forest nearby. The 32-hectare zoo has been welcoming guests since 1974. Among other things, it has the most bear species in the country and the largest collection of parrots. The purpose of the zoo is to preserve endangered species. It is worth enquiring because the zoo also offers various programs.
Sports, cultural and family programs can be found at the Győr Zoo. In the past, animals native to Hungary could be seen, but now, the range of animal species has been expanded. This is evidenced by the South American house right at the entrance. There is a strong emphasis on education in the Xantus János Zoo.
The Pécs Zoo is known for its many family programs, the feeding and presentation of species. Mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians all live here. The aquarium-terrarium in the main building has a 100,000-litre pool as well. The zoo has animals from all six continents. The zoo opened in 1960 has recently been completely renovated. With constantly changing exhibitions, they ensure that there is always something new to see.
Veszprém Zoo – Best photo gallery of Christmas in HungaryVeszprém Zoo – Best photo gallery of Christmas in Hungary
The Veszprém Zoo is the most traditional rural zoo in Hungary. The zoo, located 15 kilometres from Lake Balaton, opened in 1958. One part of the park is located in a valley and the other on a hill. This makes Veszprém Zoo very specific. Various feedings and the Dino park are the highlights of the Veszprém Zoo experience. In addition, the Monkey House, the Elephant Park, and the Bird Flyer, which is also unique in Europe, attract many visitors.
Photo: www.facebook.com/Fővárosi Állat- és NövénykertPhoto: www.facebook.com/Fővárosi Állat- és Növénykertbudapest zooThe Elephant House today
Founded in 1866, the Budapest Zoo has the largest collection in Hungary. Until 1950, it was the only institution of its kind in Hungary. Every year, 1 million visitors come to the 18.4-hectare zoo. Six playgrounds, feedings, and the Seal Show provide a stunning experience. In addition to the representatives of the Hungarian wildlife, we can also meet exotic creatures. In 2013, even the area of the Budapest Amusement Park was added to it, further increasing the range of programs.
Lake Balaton is always beautiful, but in the summer, it really comes to life. The Hungarian sea is perfect for rest and relaxation. A holiday at Lake Balaton is characterised by sunbathing, delicious main courses, and special cakes. If you are at Lake Balaton but do not know where to go for a dessert, we will show you some good places.
The pride of Balatonkenese is the Eleven Confectionery. At Eleven Confectionery, you will find classic cakes such as mignon, Dobos cake, Eszterházy cake, and cream cake. You can also find special flavours such as caramel cheesecake, toffee cake, and Bounty cake. Do not miss out on the mouse-shaped cake. If you are not in Balatonkenese, you do not have to worry either, as their cookie courier service is available. Thanks to this, they deliver desserts between Balatonalmádi and Siófok.
Apátsági Rege Confectionery is located in the amazing Tihany. It is worth visiting not only because of the cakes but also because of the sight. The breathtaking panorama is accompanied by homemade cakes. You can have breakfast, and main courses are also available here. The menu also includes cakes that are free of sugar, flour, milk, and eggs, so everyone can find something for themselves.
The Geleta Confectionery stands along road 7 in Balatonlelle, so it is impossible to get lost. The Geleta can be the perfect choice for travellers who are tired and would take a break during their trip. Sweet cakes, ice cream, and coffee await those who want to recharge. A popular choice is the Lelle Cognac Cherry, which can be purchased in a Hungarian gift box.
You may not have been to Mónisüti yet, but you may have already tasted Móni Kövérné Kalmár’s cakes. Her cakes can be found in several places, such as Balatonfüred, Szigliget, Keszthely, and Balatonföldvár. The desserts here are characterised by light creams and fresh fruit. You can also read recipes and interesting articles on Móni’s blog.
