At an award ceremony held at the Pesti Vigadó in Budapest on the occasion of the Day of Hungarian Architecture President Katalin Novák expressed her appreciation of the modern work of contemporary Hungarian architects. ‘We are modern people who respect their traditions and are capable of creating at a global level while uniquely expressing our Hungarian identity,’ she stressed. During the event, state architectural awards were presented, including the inaugural Kós Károly Lifetime Achievement Prize, which was bestowed upon Sándor Dévényi.
President Novák highlighted the relationship with the past and the emphasis on current priorities in the works of Hungarian architects. She highlighted the openness of Hungary to the world, showcasing these aspects through works that would hold their ground anywhere globally, including contemporary Hungarian architecture of the 21st century. Novák noted that the selection of focal points in architecture reflects the importance placed on sports, culture, and attention to people’s everyday lives. She pointed out that various state financing schemes and programmes have been initiated in Hungary to support the embellishment of everyday spaces of life. Proudly, the President mentioned that the majority of Hungarians today live in their own homes, which are increasingly of higher quality.
She also reminded that approximately 3,200 churches have been renovated and 200 new ones built in the Carpathian Basin since 2010, as a testimony to what is truly important in life.
At the ceremony, Minister of Construction and Transport János Lázár emphasized that Hungarian architecture is a form of self-expression for Hungarians. He praised the architects who received recognition for their work, and noted that the awards recognize the past achievements and merits of the architects being honoured, serving as examples to the architectural community. The accolades also serve as a platform to showcase who we are as Hungarians in the 21st century, inspiring future generations to embrace and practice the architectural profession. On behalf of the government, Lázár thanked every Hungarian architect for their contribution to the nation-building work of the 21st century.
Attila Turi, President of the Hungarian Academy of Arts (MMA), highlighted in his speech that Károly Kós was not only an architect but also a politician, writer, book publisher, and graphic artist.
He described Kós as a guardian of Transylvanian spirit and an organizer of cultural life. Turi emphasized Kós’s desire to improve the lives and surroundings of ordinary people, incorporating beauty and tradition into his work.
This autumn, the Hungarian parliament declared 16 December, Károly Kós’s birthdate, the Day of Hungarian Architecture. The Kós Károly Lifetime Achievement Prize, presented for the first time, was awarded to Sándor Dévényi. In recognition of outstanding professional work beyond excavating and scientific activities in the protection of archaeological heritage, this year’s Schönvisner István Award went to József Zsolt Gallina.
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Sources: Hungarian Conservative/MTI
