Irén Lovász

ethnographer, folk singer

Karcag, 11 April 1961

Corresponding member of the Hungarian Academy of Arts (2025–)

Irén Lovász is one of the very few artists capable of describing the roots and distinctive characteristics of her art with scientific precision. At the same time, she belongs to that rare group of scholars who are able to present their scientific findings and insights – and the treasures that arise from them, treasures that speak not only to the intellect but also to the soul and the heart – with extraordinary artistic refinement through the means of performance.

Kossuth Prize

The highest Hungarian state decoration for the cultivation and preservation of Hungarian culture.

View award

2020governmental award

State award for artists who have created outstanding artistic values over a prolonged period in Hungarian national culture and artistic fields (theatre, music, dance, circus, film, visual, photography, applied arts), and who already hold an artistic award granted by the minister responsible for culture. The recipient is entitled to the title “Meritorious Artist of Hungary” (short: “Meritorious Artist”).

View award

1981governmental award

Young Master of Folk Arts

State award granted to young (15-35 years old) creators and performing artists who have achieved outstanding individual accomplishments in specific branches of folk art.

View award