The Kraszna-Krausz Foundation is seeking donations of Focal Press books or the two magazines published by Focal, the publishing imprint specialising in photographic and film processes and techniques. Books with illustrative covers and dust wrappers would be welcome in particular. In addition, any catalogues or other Focal Press printed materials from the period 1938 to 1978 would also be of interest. Focal Press was founded in 1938 by Andor Kraszna-Krausz, who established the charitable foundation which bears his name upon his death in 1989. More information about the Foundation and its activities can be found here.
For further details about how to donate, please email: info@kraszna-krausz.org.uk
Andor Kraszna-Krausz (1904-1989)
Andor Kraszna-Krausz (KK) was born in Hungary. After studying photography and cinematography in Munich he moved to Berlin where he secured a job with the publisher Wilhelm Knapp. He edited the technical journal Die Filmtechnik and, from 1931, the Filmbücher für alle series of books. KK moved to Britain in 1937 and established Focal Press the following year. His significant contribution to photographic publishing was recognised towards the end of his life. His archive was left to the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television in Bradford.
Focal Press
Andor Kraszna-Krausz established Focal Press in 1938 producing practical guides to cameras and techniques for photography and moving image. Initially aimed at amateurs, Focal Press expanded its scope to cater to professionals and to include areas of focus such as audio recording, television and video. Focal Press commissioned knowledgeable authors and experienced editors and utilised KK’s own extensive publishing experience. By the time KK retired in 1978 over 1200 titles had been produced selling over fifty million books, in multiple languages. Focal Press continues today as part of Taylor & Francis/Routledge.
The Kraszna-Krausz Foundation and Book Prize
In 1985 Andor Kraszna-Krausz set up the Kraszna-Krausz Foundation with the intention of providing an annual award for the best books on photography and the moving image, and grants to support research projects. The first Awards were held the same year.
Endowed after his death, the Kraszna-Krausz Book Awards continue to celebrate excellence in photography and moving image publishing. Awards are made annually with a £10,000 prize divided between the two categories.
With thanks.
Comments
I offered a subsantial donation of Focal Press publications but had no response, not sure if they are really intereseted!
The Foundation was at Photo London so may have been delayed in responding.