Not all Israeli artistes express Jewish leanings in their artwork. Being a migratory race that spans European, Western and Middle Eastern influences, it is hard to pinpoint the real relationships. For so many of them in the early 19th century, Judaism was an underlying theme linking them to religion. This was common for painters, sculptors and now even visual artists. Invisibly the values of ‘hiddur mitzvah’ reveal that Judaica Art cannot be separated from the identity of Jewish artists. In fact, it is the quintessential essence that binds Israeli history.
It’s time for the art community, investors and historians to acknowledge Judaica art and its evolvement in maturing Jewish art forms.
Important considerations
- Link between art & Judaism
- Center point of Israeli artistic talent
- Judaica art – story behind the creation
- Eternal influence on Israeli artistic expression
Image courtesy: https://www.redbubble.com/people/casclark/works/35431799-jewish-shabbat-candle-lighting-friday-mitzvah
Art and Judaism – a vital force
Jewish race has never been vocal nor expressive about artistic representations. Since, Jews have lived in USA, Europe and also migrated to Israel, the artistic temperament is influenced by these places. The same factors reflect in individual work. Like we know that simple Jewish art has always been an integral part of private homes and synagogues. On the eastern wall the Mizrach emblem is common. It helps everyone to pray in the right direction. In a synagogue, the Shivitti helps to concentrate. The exquisite kiddish cups, candle sticks and mezuzot have their own story to tell through artistic expressions. The Star of David is the religious symbol of Judaism. Geometrically it is a hexagram. It’s named after King David of ancient Israel. A popular folk tale etymology claims that the Star of David is modeled after the shield of a young Israelite warrior David, who later became King David. This could possibly the only link that connect Judaica art to current Israeli art historical perspective. It is the vital force that continues to breathe life into artworks of Jewish artists wherever in the world they may draw inspiration from.
Bezalel Academy of Arts and Crafts – Israel’s center point for Jewish talent
Between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, the earliest talking point of art history begins in the old city. Since 1906, Jews have got government support to showcase artworks. The Bezalel Academy has more than 32 departments. Artistes from various walks of life can exhibit paintings, calligraphy, sculptors. They create religious objects or ceremonial offerings depending on the strong influence of the region they live in. Both, middle east and European influences have been found in the objects, and the underlying aspect of Judaism cannot be missed. Perhaps, this remains the strongest link to the ancient folk art too. The Bezalel Academy continues to support local talent by even buying their exhibits and displaying them in the art galleries in Tel Aviv.
The eternal influence
Jews make up a sizable religious faction across the globe. Those who interpret graphic models of religious symbols stack up new exhibits of art. For instance, nature’s link to art is universal. Every year, counting the days for Tu Bi Svat is a pleasant phase. Artistes continue to interpret trees in myriad ways and color palates. Festivities are often spent celebrating and exchanging gifts made by artists.
Spotlight on Judaic art
There is always a story behind any artiste’s creation. From time immemorial, Judaica art too has several tales connected to original creations. Private Jews keep an active interest in bringing forth new work of new age painters, sculptors and visual artists. Even online it is easy to get Shabbat candles for the Passover just incase it is not possible to visit the family back home. The sheer number of Seder plate designs are overwhelming. The handcrafted ones are considered a premium. The lockdown period is just no reason not to celebrate. Jews can still pour over the wine for Prophet Elijah while reciting the Biblical verses. The Passover is a special day and Judaica art always puts emphasis on religious aspect. It symbolizes connection to ancient tradition and embracing the new world. It will continue to influence art history even in the future. The custom is still observed by the Jewish community wherever in the world they reside.