Mácsai István (1922 - 2005)

Biography

István Mácsai (1922–2005) was a Budapest-born Hungarian painter who revitalized traditional realist painting with modern elements.

Short biography

István Mácsai was born on April 5, 1922, in Budapest. He graduated from the Academy of Fine Arts in 1949, where his master was Aurél Bernáth. He first presented a major collection of works at the Csók Gallery, followed by numerous prestigious solo exhibitions in Hungary and abroad. He received the Munkácsy Prize in 1953 and 1955, and in 1977 he was awarded a certificate of recognition in Monte Carlo.

Mácsai refreshed traditional realism with modern artistic elements. His precise depictions of people and their environments were executed with refined artistic sensitivity. His compositions are enriched with inventive ideas, creating expressive yet balanced works. Even within an objective tone, he preserved the emotional and atmospheric qualities of painting. In his figurative works, symbolic props and imaginative backgrounds go beyond pure representation. His paintings are often characterized by a contemplative color palette.

The artist passed away on September 16, 2005, in Budapest.

Biographical details

Teacher

Aurél Bernáth

Awards

• 2002: Gold Cross of Merit of the Republic of Hungary
• 2000: Honorary Citizen of Budapest, District XIII
• 1995: Pro Urbe Award, Budapest
• 1993: Erzsébet Prize
• 1953, 1955: Munkácsy Prize

Selected solo exhibitions

• 2007: Memorial Exhibition, István Mácsai Gallery, Budapest
• 2004: Kovács Máté Cultural Centre and Library, Hajdúszoboszló
• 2002: Vigadó Gallery, Budapest
• 1995: Burg Galerie, Konradsheim (Germany)
• 1984: Breughel Gallery, Amsterdam
• 1982: Galerie Rutzmoser, Munich
• 1978: Kunsthalle (Műcsarnok), Budapest
• 1972: G. Piu Arte, Florence
• 1957: Cannes (France)

Selected group exhibitions

• 2001: Contemporary Hungarian Art – Körmendi–Csák Collection, Tallinn
• 2000: Art Budapest – 3rd International Art Fair
• 1999: Art Budapest – 2nd International Art Fair
• 1998: ART BUDAPEST, HUNGEXPO
• 1977: Monte Carlo

Works in public collections

• Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest
• Budapest Gallery, Budapest
• Rippl-Rónai Museum, Kaposvár
• Báthory István Museum, Nyírbátor