The Galimberti: A Monumental Tribute in Print

Timea Andorka’s exhibition catalogue honors a lost artistic legacy

The catalogue’s visual language draws direct inspiration from the couple’s unique partnership. As described by Jolán Simon, their relationship resembled “two tall, slender trees, growing up straight side by side, without depriving each other of sunlight.” This poetic metaphor is reflected in the catalogue’s custom typography, where specially designed ligatures subtly symbolize the deep human connection between Dénes and Galimberti. The result is a graphic identity that not only distinguishes the publication but also encapsulates the essence of their collaborative oeuvre.

Realized in two separate volumes—one in English, the other in Hungarian—the catalogue’s physical form is as thoughtful as its content. Linen binding was selected to echo the painters’ preferred canvas, while the cloth-bound covers are adorned with gold foil stamping, exuding understated elegance. Each edition features a dust jacket that unfolds into a poster, allowing visitors to take home a large-scale reproduction of a key painting: Dénes graces the Hungarian edition, Galimberti the English. This interactive element enhances the catalogue’s appeal, transforming it from a mere reference book into a cherished keepsake.

Spanning 372 pages at a generous 230 × 290mm format, the publication is both comprehensive and monumental. The catalogue addresses a significant gap in art historical scholarship, as much of the couple’s oeuvre has been lost, and previous attempts at documentation were limited. Curator Gergely Barki’s research, presented within, not only clarifies the attribution of works between the two artists but also situates them within both Hungarian and international art history. The catalogue thus serves as an invaluable resource, offering richer material than the exhibition itself.

The design process was not without challenges. Months were spent searching for a serif font with sufficient ligature options to express the couple’s closeness. When none proved suitable, Andorka developed a custom set of ligatures based on the Modelista font, ensuring the typography became a visual metaphor for the artists’ intertwined lives. This attention to detail underscores the catalogue’s commitment to both form and function.

Recognized with an Iron A' Design Award in 2025, “The Galimberti” exemplifies how editorial design can elevate cultural memory. By merging research, artistry, and innovative production, the catalogue not only preserves the legacy of Dénes and Galimberti but also sets a new standard for exhibition publications.

For those seeking to experience the enduring impact of these artists, “The Galimberti” offers both a scholarly resource and a beautifully crafted object—an invitation to rediscover a lost chapter of art history through the lens of contemporary design.