At the next event hosted by SZTE Alma Mater, we invite participants to a truly special and creative workshop where they can explore the art of book decoration. The 90-minute session will focus on the creation of edge-painted books, allowing attendees to transform their own books into unique works of art. The goal of the event is to ensure that books captivate their owners not only with their content but also with their appearance.

The workshop will be led by Rebeka Kovács and Roxana Huszta-Vincze, who will not only share their professional experience but also their passion for books and art with the participants. Both have previously volunteered at SZTE Alma Mater events. For Rebeka, art and reading have always gone hand in hand, while Roxana draws inspiration for decoration from her love of books. During the workshop, they will work with watercolor paints, stencils, and creative techniques, allowing everyone to express their own unique style.

How are you connected to the University of Szeged (SZTE), and what inspired you to hold this workshop?

Rebeka Kovács (RK): I’m a 23-year-old master’s student currently studying design and art management. I earned my bachelor’s degree in 2022 at the University of Szeged, majoring in Hungarian language and literature with a specialization in creative writing.

Creativity has always been a defining part of my life — I love making my own home decorations, giving new life to old objects, and adding a little twist to everyday things. A sense of belonging to a community is very important to me, which is why I enjoy participating in university events — for example, I also volunteered at the Christmas event. I love connecting with people; these occasions always inspire me and strengthen my bond with the Alma Mater.

Roxana Huszta-Vincze (RHV): I am connected to SZTE through friends and acquaintances, and I regularly attend at the SZTE Alma Mater events. My passion for books inspired me to decorating them too, as it allows me to make them even more unique and personal.

What techniques do you use for book decoration, and do you have a favorite method?

RK: I mostly use watercolor paints for my creations, as this technique allows for beautiful, detailed patterns that don’t flake off the paper after drying. I also like experimenting with different felt-tip pens, especially for smaller patterns and details — for example, flower motifs work well with them. I’m still looking for my favorite technique, but so far, watercolor and felt-tip pen solutions are closest to my heart.

RHV: I use watercolor paint for edge-painting books. I also create stencils so that those who are less skilled at drawing can still make beautiful designs.

What is your relationship with books and reading? Do you have a favorite book or a special reading experience?

RK: I’ve loved reading since childhood, but it truly became a passion in 7th grade when I was sick for a longer time. One of my classmates handed me the first volume of Hűvösvölgyi suli — and since then, I’ve been reading non-stop. If someone asks about my favorite book, I still mention this one, because it marks the beginning of my love for reading. But if I had to pick a current favorite, I’d highlight Grown Ups by Marie Aubert and Life for Sale by Yukio Mishima.

RHV: I have loved reading since childhood. My favorite book is Pavilion of Women by Nobel Prize-winning author Pearl S. Buck. The shared readings in the Molybuborék Book Club always give me a special experience.

What experiences and skills can participants take away from the workshop?

RK: I hope that everyone will leave with good memories because you can create beautiful, unique things with any level of dexterity. The detailed patterns help develop fine motor skills while also passing on technical knowledge. The whole process offers a calm, almost meditative experience — a true “zen” moment that can contribute to a peaceful, balanced state of mind.

RHV: Edge painting books or making bookmarks is not a difficult technique. We will share some practical tips so that anyone can create these at home as well.

Do you have a memorable creation or a project that is particularly close to your heart?

RK: In high school, there was a concert by the chamber orchestra musicians, for which the students from the advanced art course created paintings — it was a special experience for me. I remember my first edge-painting was very simple and monochrome, but I already enjoyed the process back then. Since then, I’ve been learning what can be achieved with this technique. For me, this is a joint journey of growth and learning, where we learn a lot from each other — and that’s just as valuable as the creation itself.

RHV: My first book painting went very well, which inspired me to continue. I’m not a professional, but I truly enjoy making them!