Small museum in Kecskemét survives

The Bozsó collection

MúzeumCafé 15.

János Bozsó bestowed his collection to the town of Kecskemét in 1975. The region’s largest exhibited private collection presents outstanding objects of Hungarian ethnography and European arts and crafts from the beginning of the 15th to the early 20th century. The budget of the institution, which operates as a foundation, is insignificant compared not only to the collection’s value but also to its employees’ achievements. The Bozsó collection is still housed in Klapka Street, Kecskemét. Following his first highly successful exhibition János Bozsó moved into the house in 1957. He acquired a studio and also found a home for his beloved objects, which were increasing in number. Today the collection is cared for and developed by three employees. The artist’s son, János, is ‘at home’ in museum education and marketing. His mother, art historian Klára Loránd, is the curator of the collection and the museum. A teacher qualified in accountancy is in charge of finances. According to Klára Loránd the tiny number of staff presents certain difficulties in the operation. In 1993 when János Bozsó was still alive (he died in 1998), a foundation was established with the local authority for the maintenance of the exhibition and the collection. They thought that a wealthy professional circle of sponsors was soon going to appear in Hungary. It was not to be. With respect to other concrete matters: the sum of 15-20 million forints from the town’s contribution, plus various tender applications, including that of the National Civil Fund, ensure that the Bozsó Collection can function. Water bills, electricity and heating can be covered. The small amount from the tickets costing 400-600 forints is a category difficult to interpret, especially since visitors from schools and civil organisations prefer days when entrance is free.