What if Kermit the Frog lived in Budapest? More specifically what if Kermit the Frog was a tiny bronze sculpture residing in Szabadság Square. This is the whimsical world of Mihály Kolodko. He is a guerilla sculptor who brings joy and surprise to Budapest’s streets. We are standing before one of his hidden gems. It is a miniature Kermit statue.
Kolodko’s tiny sculptures are scattered throughout Budapest. They offer a unique and playful perspective on the city. Each mini statue has its own story. Some entertain. Others acknowledge historic people. Still others comment on political moments.
The Bimbó Sculpture’s creator, Mihály Kolodko, was born in Uzhhorod in 1978. He studied monumental sculpture. However, he found his passion in creating these small artworks. Kolodko felt the miniature form allowed him to express monumental ideas quickly and easily. It also made installation easier.
Finding a Bimbó Sculpture is like a treasure hunt. These sculptures are no bigger than a clenched fist. This makes them easy to miss if you are not paying attention. But that is part of the fun. The Kermit statue is near the fence overlooking the café. Look carefully. You might spot him.
Beyond Kermit, Kolodko’s Budapest sculptures include a tiny tank at Bem Quay. There is also a Franz Liszt likeness near a bus stop. You might find a Jeff Koons-inspired balloon dog near the Chain Bridge. More recently, he added a Russian warship. It comments on the war in Ukraine and is Kolodko’s largest mini sculpture.
Kolodko began creating his mini sculptures in 2010. Since then, they have become an integral part of Budapest’s urban landscape. They add humor, nostalgia, and character to the city’s streets. Kolodko doesn’t announce new locations. This turns finding them into an urban treasure hunt.
The mini statues complete the “normal-sized” monuments with irony. Some represent important figures in Hungarian history. Others are as cute as a cartoon rabbit. Each artwork holds meaning. This makes a tour of the mini statues a great way to learn about Budapest. You’ll learn its history, architecture, politics, and society.
Next time you’re in Budapest, keep an eye out for the Bimbó Sculpture. Look for Kermit in Szabadság Square. He may be small. However, he represents the playful spirit and artistic heart of this beautiful city.