Miniature statues all over Budapest!
The Broken Tank – Photo: Silverline Cruises
As spring has just kicked in so suddenly, we would like to invite you to an outdoor fun exploration throughout frequented places downtown. In this entry we would like to introduce you to the wonderful world of miniature “guerilla art” in Budapest.
In the bustling streets of Budapest, amidst the architectural marvels and historical landmarks, one can stumble upon a unique and random sight: the Kolodko Mini Statues. These miniature sculptures, created by the Hungarian artist Mihály Kolodko, have become a beloved feature of the cityscape, adding a touch of charm and element of surprise to its urban surrounding.
Introducing the Kolodko statues
Mihajlo or Mihály Kolodko, a talented sculptor known for his playful and imaginative works, began creating these mini statues in the early 2010’s. Inspired by everyday scenes and characters, but mainly from cartoons. Kolodko’s creations capture the essence of Budapest moments in miniature form.
Mihajlo Kolodko was born in Uzhhorod and has Hungarian roots on his mother’s side. In 2002, he graduated from the Lviv Academy of Arts with a degree in sculpture. Initially, he created public sculptures, as he practiced his studies in plein air art in individual and group works. His first small creations appeared on the streets of Uzhhorod and initially received mixed reactions; later, when they became familiar, people grew to love them. The idea of creating small sculptures originated from the fact that sculptures made in large sizes also had to be initially created in small sizes. The artist did not always have clients to realize his plans, so lacking financial support, to prevent his ideas from being lost, he made them in miniature. When Kolodko moved to Budapest with his family, he first created the “Main Worm” or more precisely the “Master Bait” statue, which is located on the Buda embankment. Representing the sidekick of the Great Fisherman from the cartoon with the same title. (A nagy ho-ho-horgász)
One of the most endearing aspects of the Kolodko Mini Statues is their unexpected presence. Unlike traditional monuments or sculptures, which often command attention in prominent locations, these miniatures are tucked away in unexpected corners of the city. They may be found on window ledges, park benches, or even peeking out from behind doorways, inviting passersby to pause and discover them. The one closest to our dock, Dock 11 is representing the cartoon character Ratatouille at the foot of the Elisabeth bridge (Erzsébet híd) on the Buda side. Be sure to check it out after arriving back from our sightseeing cruise on the Danube. Once you cross the bridge you can find this mini statue under the bridge. Be careful when you approach it as it is located near frequented intersection, near the bike path.
The little rodent admiring its name in Hungarian – Photo: Silverline Cruises
Furthermore, some of them have deeper meaning requiring a bit of background on urban history of Budapest. One example of this is the Diver’s statue located near the New York Café. The story relates to the opening ceremony of the café which was the gathering place of the intellectual life of Hungary in the 19th and early 20th century. Back in 1894 during the inauguration celebration of the New York Café, the invited bohemian guests adored the place so much so that one of them stole the key to the main gate and threw it on the Danube, with the intention of keeping it open forever. To commemorate this deed, a small figure of a diver sitting on a large key on top of a stone fire hydrant close by was placed to prove that the legend was true.
The Diver near New York Palace – Photo: i.szalas.hu
What sets Kolodko’s work apart is its craftsmanship. Despite their small size, each statue is meticulously detailed, with intricate features and expressive gestures that bring them to life. Whether cast in bronze, sculpted from clay, or crafted from other materials, these miniatures showcase Kolodko’s skill as an artist and his ability to imbue his creations with personality and charm.
Another aspect of the Kolodko Mini Statues lies in their diversity. Many of them take on a whimsical tone, featuring anthropomorphic animals engaged in human-like activities characters from well-known American and lesser-known Hungarian cartoons. Watching the former cartoons as a kid, taught the artist the Hungarian language. Just to name a few examples: Lisa from the Simpsons, Kermit the frog from the Muppet Show, Dracula and recently, around Easter of 2024 the tied statue of Chuck Norris can be observed in Budapest.
Why Chuck Norris?
Yes that’s right the well-known martial artist actor is celebrated in Hungary, and he is the butt of many jokes featuring his toughness and ruggedness. However, the question remains why here? What is the connection? Before inaugurated in 2008, there was a poll on the Internet when choosing the name this Bridge, and the second most votes came in for Chuck Norris. However, the much more mundane name Megyeri bridge was chosen for this bridge. To commemorate the funnier possibility and to never forget the alternative name of the bridge the miniature tied up statue of the action hero was recently installed on the Pest side of the bridge in 2024.
Chuck Norris tied up. Will the rope survive? – Photo: Silverline Cruises
or visitors to Budapest, stumbling upon a Kolodko Mini Statue can be a delightful surprise. Furthermore, finding more of them can prove to be a daunting but fun quest or scavenger hunt across the city. In recent years, efforts have been made to catalog and map the locations of the Kolodko Mini Statues, turning them into a sort of urban treasure hunt for visitors and residents alike. This initiative not only encourages exploration and discovery but also fosters a deeper connection to the city and its artistic community. Here we would like to provide you with the “beginners guide” to localize the well-known ones. Please note that there are almost thrice as many statues now scattered in Budapest as in 2019. Some of them were unfortunately damaged or stolen and therefore do not exist anymore. But don’t let this bring your mood down so be on the lookout for additional ones!
Kolodko statues in downtown Budapest (2020) – Kolodko Art – facebook
In conclusion, the Kolodko Mini Statues in Budapest are more than just quirky urban curiosities—they are testaments to the power of art, the element of surprise, delight. Also reminding us that size doesn’t matter when it comes to art. Whether you stumble upon them by chance or seek them out intentionally, these miniature masterpieces offer a unique glimpse into the creative spirit of Budapest and the imagination of its people.
