Peto, Michael, 1908-1970

Michael Peto, photographer, was born in Bata, Hungary on 2 June 1908. On completion of his secondary education Peto worked in his father's general store, and a keen interest in arts and crafts soon developed into a business venture. It was the connection with his work in the export of Hungarian craft products that enabled him to reach Britain at the outset of the Second World War.

Peto's war years were spent in London where he became engaged in war work of national importance and was involved with the ARP. He was devoted to the establishment of a Socialist Hungary after the war and advocated an international exchange school of teachers and pupils once peace was established. He was greatly concerned with the education of both adults and children after the war and greatly favoured progressive education systems. Peto was a strong supporter of A S Neill and became involved with Summerhill School in 1944.

Peto developed his skills in photography and graphic art after technical instruction from Ervin Marton. He was concerned to achieve his own personal style and eventually became a renowned photographer. He died on 25 December 1970.

From the guide to the Michael Peto, 1943-[ca 1970], (University of Dundee)