Vasarely Museum is a place you definitely shouldn’t miss while in Budapest – it’s a rare opportunity to see a large collection of work by renowned artist and designer Victor Vasarely, often referred to as founder of Op Art. If you love colour, movement and abstract art, the chances are you will simply love it.

There are only two other places in the world where you can see a permanent collection of Vasarely’s work : Vasarely museum in his native city of Pécs (south of Hungary) and Foundation Vasarely Aix-en-Provence in France that is momentary under restoration.

For me it is THE museum to see in Budapest, and my constant source of inspiration and relaxation. Vasarely might be a bit forgotten at the moment – one reason more to check upon this great artist of the 20th century whose influence can be seen all over today’s architecture and design and who believed art should be part of a daily life. His colourful, abstract images create optical illusions and impressions of motion and space, depending on how and from where you observe.

In the museum you will see large canvases, tapestries (that took his wife 16 years to produce), acrylic glass panes – all in countless combinations of colours and forms, challenging the way we look and see. You will also be able to see his early drawings, textile designs, poster and logotype designs showing you how it all began. Walking among his work is like walking into another, virtual world, co-creating the space and experience of art. You are bound to come out recharged, refreshed and inspired.

The museum itself is a nice, quiet place, established in the part of the Zichy Palace that was restored by Vasarely and had for some time also hosted his studio. Vasarely donated large amount of his work and the museum itself to the Hungarian state. The place is not too big and it is rarely crowded, so you won’t get overwhelmed. Last time I was there I actually had the entire place to myself and couldn’t believe my luck. The museum is located near the Árpad bridge and is easily accessible by public transport (tram no.1, HÉV and numerous buses).

Photo by Maja Kaurin

By Maja Kaurin, from SpottedbyLocals.com/budapest
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