Discover André Kertész’s Legacy at the Capa Center’s Permanent Exhibition
Step into the world of André Kertész, one of the most influential figures in modern photography, at the newly unveiled permanent exhibition titled The Sentimentalist at Budapest’s Capa Center. Opened on March 19, 2025, this meticulously curated showcase celebrates the life and work of the Hungarian-born artist whose innovative visual language reshaped photography and continues to inspire generations worldwide. Visitors are invited to explore six thematic sections that chronicle Kertész’s extraordinary career and personal journey, offering a profound insight into his artistic vision and emotional depth.
A Journey Through Time: André Kertész’s Life and Career
Born in Budapest in 1894, André Kertész embarked on a career that spanned over seventy years and three countries—Hungary, France, and the United States. He is celebrated as a pioneer of modernist photography, renowned for capturing the beauty hidden in everyday moments with striking simplicity and emotional resonance. Despite leaving Hungary in 1925 to pursue his career abroad, Kertész maintained a deep connection to his homeland throughout his life. His photographs reflect his ability to find meaning in the ordinary, transforming fleeting moments into timeless works of art.
The exhibition traces Kertész’s journey through six thematic sections: Movements, On the Path of War, The Story of My Wife, From Budapest Studios to Parisian Ateliers, The Metamorphosis of the Body, and The Enigmatic Image. Each section offers a unique perspective on his life, exploring significant events, relationships, and artistic milestones that shaped his work. From his early experiments with photography in Hungary to his iconic images created in Paris and New York, visitors gain an intimate understanding of Kertész’s creative evolution.
Rare Artifacts and Iconic Photographs
At the heart of The Sentimentalist exhibition are original prints from Kertész’s extensive body of work. These include photographs he gifted to Szigetbecse—a village tied to his childhood memories—and digital reproductions of glass negatives from the Kertész archive donated to France. The exhibition also features personal artifacts such as correspondence with his wife and items that reflect his deep emotional connections. These elements provide a multifaceted view of Kertész’s life, revealing not just the artist but also the man behind the camera.
One highlight is the inclusion of works from Szigetbecse, where Kertész spent part of his childhood. In his later years, he donated 120 signed photographs to the village as an expression of gratitude for its role in shaping his early memories. These images now serve as a cornerstone for understanding Kertész’s artistic legacy and emotional ties to Hungary.
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A Deeper Look at André Kertész’s Artistic Process
Curated by Kopin Katalin, the exhibition goes beyond showcasing iconic works by delving into Kertész’s creative process. By presenting lesser-known images alongside famous ones, visitors gain insight into how he approached composition, storytelling, and experimentation. This thoughtful curation highlights missing links in his oeuvre, offering a richer understanding of his methods and motivations.
Additionally, the exhibition explores how fine art influenced Kertész’s photography. Visitors can view select artworks connected to his life and creative philosophy, as well as postcards from late correspondence with his wife. These layers add depth to the narrative, revealing how personal relationships and external influences shaped his artistic vision.
The Capa Center: A Cultural Hub in Budapest
Located on Nagymező Street in Budapest, the Capa Center is a premier destination for photography enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. Named after Robert Capa—another legendary Hungarian photographer—the center is dedicated to showcasing groundbreaking photographic works from Hungary and beyond. With its state-of-the-art facilities and thoughtfully curated exhibitions, it serves as a vital hub for preserving photographic heritage while inspiring future generations.
By hosting The Sentimentalist alongside its permanent Robert Capa exhibition, the center underscores Hungary’s rich contributions to global photography. Visitors can immerse themselves in two distinct yet equally transformative artistic legacies while exploring Budapest’s vibrant cultural scene.
Why You Should Visit The Sentimentalist
Whether you’re an avid admirer of André Kertész or new to his work, this exhibition offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience one of modern photography’s most profound legacies. The combination of rare artifacts, iconic photographs, and thematic storytelling creates an immersive experience that resonates deeply with audiences. Moreover, its location at the Capa Center makes it an essential stop for anyone visiting Budapest.
Discover André Kertész’s timeless artistry at The Sentimentalist. Engage with his vision through carefully curated sections that reveal not only his groundbreaking contributions to photography but also the emotional depth that defined his life’s work.