Rediscovering Botticelli: Israeli Artists Reinterpret Masterpieces at Mishkan Museum

Botticelli’s “Venus” now stands in the Mishkan Museum of Art in Kibbutz Ein Harod. This life-sized sculpture, made of Styrofoam by Israeli artist Sasha Serber, welcomes visitors to the “Masterpieces” exhibition. This exhibit features over 300 artworks by 47 Israeli artists, reimagining famous historical pieces.

The Mishkan Museum has replaced its usual modern decor with vibrant wall colors, such as lavender and teal, to create a lively setting for the artworks. The exhibition is organized by artistic inspiration from various eras, including the Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Impressionism, and more. The aim is to recreate the essence of well-known art history.

Avi Lubin, the chief curator, conceived this exhibition as a playful idea during the pandemic, when travel was restricted. He gathered artists’ recreations of famous works, acknowledging that these efforts are often overlooked by audiences.

Current global events have cast a shadow over the exhibition. Following the October 7 Hamas attack in 2023, Israeli artists face increased isolation in the international art scene. Lubin notes that the cultural environment has worsened, complicating dialogue around Israeli art.

How do the chosen artworks in the “Masterpieces” exhibition reinterpret famous pieces from art history?

Interview with Avi Lubin, Chief Curator of the “Masterpieces” Exhibition at the Mishkan Museum of Art

Interviewer: Thank you, Avi, for joining us today to discuss the “Masterpieces” exhibition at the Mishkan Museum of Art. Can you share what inspired this unique exhibition, particularly during such a challenging time?

Avi Lubin: Thank you for having me. The idea for “Masterpieces” came to me during the pandemic when travel restrictions were prevalent, and many of us were reflecting on art and its impact from a distance. I thought it would be interesting to invite artists to reinterpret iconic pieces from art history, allowing them to reimagine the essence of these works through their own unique lenses.

Interviewer: That’s fascinating! You mentioned over 300 artworks by 47 Israeli artists. How did you select the artists and artworks for this exhibition?

Avi Lubin: The selection process was quite organic. I reached out to various artists whose work I admire and encouraged them to create pieces that respond to famous historical works. It was important for me to showcase a range of styles and mediums, representing different eras including the Italian Renaissance, Baroque, Impressionism, and more. This diversity allows visitors to engage with art history in a fresh context.

Interviewer: The vibrant wall colors in the museum are a departure from the usual modern decor. What was the rationale behind this design choice?

Avi Lubin: We aimed to create a lively and inviting atmosphere that complements the artworks. The colors—lavender and teal—are meant to evoke a sense of joy and creativity, drawing visitors in and encouraging them to explore the exhibition more deeply. The environment plays a crucial role in how art is perceived and experienced.

Interviewer: Given the recent events in Israel, how has the context of the exhibition changed?

Avi Lubin: Unfortunately, the cultural environment has shifted dramatically in light of the October 7 Hamas attack. Israeli artists now find themselves facing increased isolation in the international art scene. This has made it even more critical to foster dialogue around Israeli art and support these artists in expressing their experiences. The exhibition serves as a platform for those narratives, and it feels all the more relevant as we navigate these turbulent times.

Interviewer: Artists like Boyan and the duo Asaf and Moran Gam Hacohen are using their art to respond to current events. Can you elaborate on how their works contribute to the exhibition’s theme?

Avi Lubin: Absolutely. Boyan’s series “After Rubens” resonates deeply with today’s realities, providing a contemporary reflection on historical themes. Meanwhile, Asaf and Moran Gam Hacohen’s video pieces reinterpret classic artworks through modern lenses, inviting audiences to witness their experiences of dislocation and introspection. These contributions are vital as they bridge the gap between past and present, sparking meaningful conversations about identity and resilience.

Interviewer: How do you hope visitors will engage with “Masterpieces”?

Avi Lubin: My hope is that visitors will find solace and inspiration in the collection of works. In a time when many feel disconnected or overwhelmed, art has the power to connect us, even in silence. I want people to leave with a renewed appreciation for Israeli art and to recognize the profound narratives woven throughout these reinterpretations of historical masterpieces.

Interviewer: Thank you, Avi, for sharing your insights. The “Masterpieces” exhibition sounds like a vital and enriching experience for all who visit.

Avi Lubin: Thank you for having me! I look forward to welcoming everyone to the Mishkan Museum to explore these incredible works.

Boyan, a Bulgarian-born painter, showcases a series called “After Rubens,” relating to current events. Other artists highlight their experiences of dislocation and introspection in their works. Asaf and Moran Gam Hacohen created video pieces that give contemporary takes on classic artworks.

This wave of artistic expression serves as an anchor during turbulent times. The current circumstances limit the visibility of Israeli art on global platforms, reinforcing a sense of disconnect.

“Masterpieces” resides at the Mishkan Museum, displaying its rich tapestry of diverse art forms until February. Visitors can experience iconic pieces in this unique context, fostering a conversation through art even in silence.