Author Description

'As Is: Contemporary Israeli Art' tells the story of both daily life and cultural complexities and peculiarities that highlight the fundamental dialogue between art and various topics, among which is the Jewish rebirth after the Holocaust, religious and secular aspects of life, war, terrorism, traditions, and patriotic sentiment. From the second Intifada to the withdrawal from Lebanon, and from withdrawal from Gaza to the war in Lebanon, in the past 10 years, Israel has gone through dramatic periods in its history, and continues to deal with kamikaze attacks in the heart of its cities, meaning that social topics intersect with daily life with an uncommon urgency. Therefore, while some artists concentrate on global interests, at times to avoid local problems, many others respond directly to these events expressing fear, anxiety, political appeals, desires, and aspirations. The exhibition at the Vittoriano aims at showing those creative forces that not only flower in, but also accompany people, during the difficult living conditions in Israel while exuding an optimistic and ironic nature. A joy of life which becomes evident in the works of many contemporary artists who with their art shed light on the uniqueness of Israeli life. Written in English and Italian.