Description

The Gödöllő Artists' Colony stands out as a significant example of Hungary's art colonies from the turn of the century. Established in 1901 with Aladár Körösfői-Kriesch's move to Gödöllő, its economic backbone was formed by a weaving school initiated in 1904, with technical expertise provided by professionals like Leo Belmonte, Lenke Boér, and Vilma Frey.

The colony gained momentum as Árpád Juhász and István Zichy joined in 1905 and 1906, respectively, and in 1907, the weaving school gained official recognition as a workshop of the School of Applied Arts. Although the colony exhibited as a unified group only in 1909, its members dispersed with the outbreak of war, marking a symbolic end in 1920 with Körösfői-Kriesch's passing.

Characterized as a freely organized creative community, the colony aimed for artistic renewal through radical lifestyle changes, embracing rural life and nature. Their worldview blended socialist ideals, national conservatism, and Christian values, influenced by mystical theosophy and Nietzschean philosophy. Architect István Medgyaszay was associated with the group, and their most notable work includes the Secessionist Cultural Palace in Marosvásárhely, featuring artwork by Gödöllő artists. Their diverse output ranged from monumental architectural decoration to carpet weaving, leatherworks, and children's toys.

Engraver: Gábor Gáti