METU Student Wins Special Prize at the Warsaw International Poster Biennale

Budapest Metropolitan University (METU) is proud to celebrate another international achievement: Vanda Gödöllei, a first-year MA student in Graphic Design, has received a special prize at the prestigious International Poster Biennale in Warsaw— one of the most renowned graphic design showcases in the world.

A Historic Platform for Poster Art

Founded in 1966 by the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw, the biennale was the first regular international event dedicated to poster art. It aims to establish the poster as a legitimate artistic medium, showcasing its capacity to serve aesthetic, communicative, and social functions. The event is divided into a main competition and thematic sections, with works evaluated by an international jury. Top entries are awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals, as well as special prizes.

Each edition of the biennale explores pressing social themes. The 2025 theme, "Quo Vadis?", reflects on the directions of our shared future. Alongside the exhibitions, a series of conferences, symposia, workshops, and retrospectives highlight the medium’s diversity and relevance in contemporary culture. Over the decades, the biennale has evolved into a major global forum for poster artists to respond visually to current social and political issues. Exhibitions are open throughout the summer at various locations across Warsaw.

Recognition in the “STEPS” Student Category

On July 9, 2025, the results of the biennale’s student section, “STEPS,” were officially announced. Hosted in the gallery of the Institute of Industrial Design in Warsaw, the exhibition features works that explore the visual representation of change, growth, movement, and their social or personal dimensions.

The jury selected the works of 106 students from 15 art universities across 11 countries. METU is especially proud that four of its students were among those chosen—a remarkable achievement for a Hungarian higher education institution.

A Voice for Young Artists

“Many of us, as young artists, struggle with the feeling that we’re not good enough. For me, this award silenced that doubt. The theme posed a lot of challenges, but the creative journey, the support of my supervisor, and the inspiring environment all helped me believe that I do belong among artists. I’m grateful that this has now been validated in such a tangible way by the professional community,” said Vanda Gödöllei upon receiving the award.

Congratulations, Vanda!

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Vanda Gödöllei for earning this special recognition and bringing international acclaim to METU and her fellow students through her outstanding achievement.