Simon
Holpert

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

Since 5 years I reside and work in Budapest, Hungary, in the flat Pest side.

Where is your studio located & how does it look?

My studio, where I shape and breathe life into my ceramic creations, is located at Damjanich utca 47 in Budapest, on the Pest side near City Park (Városliget). It is just a short walk from the House of Music Hungary and the Ethnographic Museum—designed by Marcel Ferencz and awarded the gold medal at the FIABCI World Prix d’Excellence.

The space is divided into two parts: one is a working studio marked by traces of ongoing experiments and, in the near future, it will also host clay workshops. The other part serves as a small showroom, where I exhibit my own sculptures and occasionally feature works by guest artists. The studio is currently undergoing a light summer refurbishment to welcome visitors more comfortably in the fall.

Are there any projects that are personally important to you—whether recently completed or currently in progress?

Yes—a few recent and ongoing projects hold deep personal meaning. One of them is Melting Ice, Meeting Minds, a ceramic installation inspired by fire, transformation, and ecological urgency. It was recently exhibited in South Korea as part of a thematic exhibition on nature.

Another is a traveling exhibition I’m curating titled FIRE ENCHANTMENT, dedicated to contemporary wood-fired ceramics. It will feature several Hungarian ceramic artists and will launch in Budapest in March 2026, with subsequent stops in cities like Bucharest, Prague, and Brussels.

I’m also currently developing a sculptural series that explores the concept of freedom—as both a personal and political theme. These works question how we define liberty, and whether we are truly free to lose or reclaim it.

Do you have a favorite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

When I seek relaxation in my residential area or its surroundings, I often find solace in the serene ambiance of City Park (Városliget). This park has various entertainment possibilities for kids, sports activities for all included thermal baths with the famous chess players, and cultural landmarks. The proximity of the Museum of Fine Arts, Műcsarnok Kunsthalle, the recently opened House of Music, and the Ethnographical Museum adds a layer of cultural richness to my daily surroundings. The dynamic blend of nature and cultural offerings in the area creates a harmonious balance that enhances my overall well-being.

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

While recognizing that every country encounters its own set of challenges, my emphasis remains on fostering a positive outlook and contributing to the creation of a harmonious and fulfilling life. Rather than delving into specific political questions or problems, my energy is directed towards the creation of art that transcends boundaries and promotes a meaningful connection between people.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years—and what has not?

In the last five years, Budapest has undergone a remarkable transformation, with positive developments notably in the restoration of the city, the establishment of new museums, and the creation of awe-inspiring architectural structures. The commitment to preserving and revitalizing the city’s historical charm through restoration projects has been a notable success. These additions not only contribute to the city’s vibrancy but also offer platforms for creative expression and
engagement.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers—whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

I recommend Dreaming Threads by Eszter Révész, founded in 2019. She designs unique hand-woven carpets, tapestries and home textiles and adapts the typical elements of folk art into contemporary interiors.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

Budapest, in its constant pursuit of innovation, stands out in several aspects that captivate both residents and visitors alike. One noteworthy innovation lies in the city’s commitment to blending historical charm with modern sustainability initiatives. The incorporation of eco-friendly practices (city by bike, drinks in reusable cups, zero-waste stores) and green spaces within the urban landscape distinguishes Budapest as a city that values both its rich history and contemporary environmental concerns.

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

In Hungary, where the gastronomy culture is deeply cherished, hidden gems are a rarity. Nevertheless, one restaurant that has recently caught my attention is SOLID, a rooftop restaurant and wine bar nestled on the 7th floor of Hotel Rum. What makes SOLID stand out is not just its exquisite Hungarian dishes and wide selection of wines but also the breathtaking panoramic view it offers of the Budapest skyline.

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

There are two stores that hold a special place in my regular visits, offering distinctive treasures that reflect my appreciation for vintage aesthetics and exquisite fragrances. The first is Fabrika, a furniture store curated by Mariann Kollár. Fabrika is a haven for enthusiasts of iconic furniture, rare lamps, and vintage home decor. What sets Fabrika apart is not only the expert restoration of these objects to meet contemporary tastes but also the commitment to using natural materials during the refurbishment process. The second store that captivates my senses is 7scents, an enclave devoted to niche perfumes. Exclusivity defines the essence of 7scents, as none of the perfume collections found here can be discovered elsewhere in Hungary or Europe. This makes each visit to 7scents a unique olfactory journey, offering a chance to experience artisanal fragrances that are truly one-of-a-kind. My personal favorites include LAVS by Filippo Sorcinelli, Grimoire by Anatole Lebreton, Alter Oud by D.Grayi, and Park of the Monsters by Infieri. These two stores not only contribute to the cultural tapestry of Budapest but also offer a personalized and enriching shopping experience that aligns with my distinct preferences and interests.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

In my daily routine, three apps play pivotal roles in keeping me connected, entertained, and pursuing my passion for music: Instagram, Netflix for my daily entertainment and Discogs as a vinyl enthusiast because I love to catalog and expand my vinyl records collection.

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

For staying informed and indulging in rich content across various domains, I turn to a curated selection of newspapers and online magazines that align with my interests: Wallpaper magazine, VoyageVoyage magazine, Elle Decor, Le Courrier International and different ceramic magazine from different countries.

Imagine you could be mayor for a year—what would you change?

If I were to assume the role of mayor for a year in my city, my foremost initiative would be to foster a stronger sense of human interaction and dismantle the anonymity prevalent in big cities. I could imagine more local business support, more cultural and educational programs, more public art and more pedestrian friendly areas. By prioritizing human interaction, my aim would be to transform the city into a place where people feel connected, engaged, and curious about each other. Through these initiatives, we can break down the barriers of anonymity and build a community-driven urban environment.

And another wish, as a mayor, I would like to explore the possibility of establishing a ceramic art center or museum in Budapest, considering the vibrant and dynamic state of the ceramic world, which is thriving not only locally but also internationally nowadays.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live—regardless of financial or time constrains—which one would you choose?

I envision an idyllic countryside retreat, ideally situated not too far from a culturally rich city that captures the essence of places I hold dear, such as New York, Venice, Paris and Kyoto. In this imagined heaven, I would wake up to the tranquility of nature, breathe in the fresh air, and embrace a slower pace of life. For me, the essence of a place lies not just in its physical beauty but in the love and personal touch one brings to it.

Having experienced the thrill of being a foreigner in different parts of the world, I cherish the curiosity that comes with discovering new surroundings. Therefore, my dream location would be a place that stimulates my sense of wonder and encourages a lifelong journey of exploration and discovery.