Polyák Ferenc (1945–2013) came from a peasant family. In Matkó, he went to the "old school" and in Kecskemét to the Piarist High School. He first turned to woodcarving in childhood, first he adorned everyday objects, later on he learned to carve sculptures and reliefs as well.

He used axe and chisel in his works, preferred hard wood (walnut, elm, oak, wild pear tree), and found themes for his works most of the time in common folk life. A documentary movie was made of his life and work entitled 'A Wood Carver from the Steppe. In 1987 he received the title Master of Folk Art.