BUDAPEST GRAPHIC GUIDE
The Budapest Graphic Guide is a series of illustrations originally created in 2009 at the request of Cicada Books in London. The book features European countries or cities, each presented from the unique perspective of a local graphic artist, illustrated with their own work. The honor of representing Budapest was given to our studio's founder, Dávid Baráth. Dávid introduces the city to visitors in a style inspired by renowned Hungarian constructivist artists László Moholy-Nagy and Lajos Kassák.
His approach reduces Budapest's topography—its roads, bridges, geographical, and architectural landmarks—into abstract symbols and text. For instance, the Danube becomes a long blue stripe, while the city's iconic curved tram line is depicted as a yellow arc. Buda is portrayed as greener and more hilly, while Pest is flat and more densely built, with the two sides divided by the flowing Danube.
The red heart represents the city's 7th district, known for its vibrant ruin
bars and nightlife. This area is essentially the city’s densest part—its core,
its soul, its heart.
The graphics have gained significant popularity, with many
choosing to acquire the entire poster collection to adorn their homes, as they
seamlessly complement sleek, minimalist interiors. They also frequently
embellish the walls of apartments intended for short-term rentals.
The rights to these illustrations were later acquired by Random Artworks, who use them in a postcard collection and on various souvenir items.
The graphics remain available on T-shirts, postcards, and as posters printed on custom sizes and materials. If you are interested, please contact us at info(at)studiobarath.com!
