| For this exhibition, I chose 16 photographers and video artists from Israel who personally reflect upon their country: the community in which they live, the numerous cultural and religious differences among Israel’s population, and the current political situation. Some artists are critical, while others give expression to their hopes and dreams. Some of the works are probing and confrontational, while others are subtle and poetic. I chose these artists because I admire their artistic positions and their techniques. The exhibition coincides with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Israel. During its relatively short existence, Israel has been at the center of events that have had a widespread social impact. In addition to the immigration of Jews from all around the world, and wars with neighboring countries, there are ongoing tensions between Israelis and Palestinians. | 
|
Edward van Voolen curated Art of the State: Contemporary Photography and Video Art from Israel, which is on display from June 27 to November 30, at the Jewish Historical Museum in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Adi Nes, Untitled (Soldiers), 1999. Courtesy of Sommer Contemporary Art, Tel Aviv.For this exhibition, I chose 16 photographers and video artists from Israel who personally reflect upon their country: the community in which they live, the numerous cultural and religious differences among Israel’s population, and the current political situation. Some artists are critical, while others give expression to their hopes and dreams. Some of the works are probing and confrontational, while others are subtle and poetic. I chose these artists because I admire their artistic positions and their techniques.
The exhibition coincides with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Israel. During its relatively short existence, Israel has been at the center of events that have had a widespread social impact. In addition to the immigration of Jews from all around the world, and wars with neighboring countries, there are ongoing tensions between Israelis and Palestinians. Each of these elements influences the nature of Israeli society, and they have visible consequences for daily life in Israel.
Israeli artists use a variety of media to express their commitment to the social and political situation in their country. In the photographs and video works presented here, the makers give their personal visions of Israel: they acquaint us with its people, the landscape, and the consequences the political situation has for both. The artists refer to Jewish and Israeli history, but also embrace comparisons with other peoples and traditions. The participating artists regularly exhibit in (Jewish) museums and galleries in Israel and abroad. Several of the works were previously shown at the Documenta in Kassel and the Venice Biennale.
Art of the State includes photographs and videos by Larry Abramson, Boaz Arad, Yael Bartana, Barry Frydlender, Amit Goren, Nir Hod, Gaston Zvi Ickowicz, Erez Israeli, Miki Kratsman, Sigalit Landau, Dana Levy, Adi Nes, Guy Raz, Michal Rovner, Doron Solomons and Pavel Wolberg.
