István Medgyaszay - Architecture and Ornamentation

The exhibition demonstrates the ornamentation of István Medgyaszay giving proof to its close connection to modernity. During his studies in Vienna he made plans and sketches influenced by the Art Nouveau architecture and its ornamentation.

From 1904 to 1906 he went on "study tours" to Kalotaszeg and Székelyföld where traditional Hungarian folk art had a special effect on him, supplementing his knowledge of the Semperian theory of arts. A shift in his viewpoint - after his trip - can be shown through his drawings, aquarells, the notes he took and his writings published. His extraordinary talent can be seen on his early works such as his castle reconstructions, artists' studios in Gödöllő, weaving school plan and the theatre in Veszprém.

The planning and construction of various other buildings was effected by the design and composition of the National Pantheon in Gellérthegy (1903-1906) such as the National Memorial in Hármashatárhegy. Further in time one can notice István Medgyaszay's style harmonisation with Asian art and architecture.
The topic of the "tent" also inspired him in his work: The Millenium Kingtent in Pula and the theatre in Nagykanizsa.
The so called art nouveau can be traced in his work "Rusz House" where his ornamentation is the evidence of its commissioner's occupation, who was a wine trader. Wine leaves curve around the whole house making its design as lively as ever.

The exhibition goes through the work of István Medgyaszay - an inspiring and extraordinary architect and designer - beginning from his Art Nouveau style to Hungarian folk art based ornamentation.