-
Home
- Art & Culture
Art & Culture
- Details
- Written by Silvia G. Golan
After a three-year, $50 million conservation and renewal program, the new Tower of David Jerusalem Museum opens as the capital’s official museum, June 1.
- New multi-level sunken entrance pavilion at the Jaffa Gate offers a new gateway to the Old City. The new visitor flow, integral to the museum’s concept, allows visitors to first better understand Jerusalem’s history through its new exhibition and provides food for thought to contemplate the complex reality of the Old City before entering its streets and alleyways.
- 10 completely new thematic galleries, telling Jerusalem’s 4,000-year story, and its centrality to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam with models of the Second Temple, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Dome of the Rock.
- Innovative and engaging content, including interactive, 12-meter multi-media wall (largest in Israel), 3-D digital modeling, video mapping, immersive 360 video installation, interactive sphere (first in Israel), 14 interactive maps, new animation films by Ari Folman and others
- Authentic artifacts, some dating back to approx. 1500 years BCE and many displayed in-situ for the first time.
- Citadel accessible to all visitors with ambitious Accessibility Program and first-of-its-kind elevator in Israel, chair lifts and ramps.
- Conservation of ancient citadel’s walls and minaret.
- Museum area doubled to over 20,000 square meters.
Eilat Lieber, Director and Chief Curator, Tower of David Jerusalem Museum:
“No other museum can tell Jerusalem’s story in such a distinctive setting, within this citadel, that has witnessed so many eventful periods in the city's past. The iconic architecture, massive Jerusalem stone walls and beautifully arched ceiling guard rooms create a unique setting for this museum which will become the gateway to this unique city. Alongside the physical conservation of the walls and towers of this ancient site, we have developed a completely new permanent exhibition and creative programming that tells Jerusalem's long, complex and colorful history in respectful, innovative and engaging ways. Whether it is a school child from Israel – or a visitor from overseas, I hope that the Tower of David can give them a basis for dialogue, tolerance and respect. These are the things that will make the world a better place and visitors from near and far will leave the museum with a better understanding of Jerusalem, this eternal city.”
Jerusalem, May 22, 2023 - After more than a decade in planning and three years of construction with a multi-disciplinary team of archaeologists, architects, curators, researchers, designers and creatives, the new Tower of David Jerusalem Museum opens to the public in the ancient citadel as the capital’s official museum on June 1st.
The $50 million renewal and conservation of the Tower of David Jerusalem Museum was led by Dame Vivien Duffield through the Clore Israel Foundation together with the support of the Municipality of Jerusalem, the Ministry of Jerusalem and Jewish Tradition, the Ministry of Heritage, the Ministry of Tourism, the Patrick and Lina Drahi Foundation, Keren Hayesod, The Jerusalem Foundation, the American Friends of Museums in Israel and the P Austin Family Foundation.
The Tower of David citadel, located between the old and new city, layered with nearly 3,000 years of history, is uniquely placed to tell the story of Jerusalem, a city that has no equal in the world. With its new visitor flow - from the Jaffa Gate entrance pavilion through the galleries, the Phasael Tower observation point and exiting into the Old City - the Tower of David Jerusalem Museum becomes the gateway to the exploration of Jerusalem. Integral to the museum’s new concept, this allows visitors to first better understand Jerusalem’s history through its new exhibition and provides food for thought to contemplate the complex reality of the Old City before entering its streets and alleyways.
The museum's new permanent exhibition begins with an interactive exploration of Jerusalem’s linear urban and cultural development. The next three galleries trace the sanctity of Jerusalem and its religious significance in Judaism, Christianity and Islam, weaving history and artifacts into the spiritual sphere with models of the Second Temple, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Dome of Rock. The journey through Jerusalem's story, told in the different rooms of the citadel, takes the visitor through to the 21st century, focusing on the events and developments that have shaped the city in recent history, and continue to influence its present-day identity as the capital of the State of Israel. These include the completely restored Illés model of Jerusalem, made for the 1873 Vienna World Fair, that offers a unique bird’s eye view of Jerusalem at that time; and the development of modern-day Jerusalem shown through the prism of photography and film.
The galleries are arranged in a thematic-chronological order. While they do create a story together, each one can also stand on its own. Interdisciplinary methods have been used to convey the complex experience that represents the story of the city: history, geography, archeology, literature and theology, film and photography, culture studies, music and more.
Tal Kobo, Curator of the permanent exhibition: " Jerusalem has been invaded, conquered, destroyed and rebuilt– it has been independent and has submitted to empires and civilizations – but never been abandoned. These levels of history are still evident today and define the landscape and culture of the city, making Jerusalem one of the most fascinating cities in the world. It is a tremendous responsibility to curate an exhibition about this unique city".
The renewal and conservation project, which ensured the integrity of the ancient spaces and stones, was undertaken in partnership with the Israel Antiquities Authority. Excavations were carried out by a team of archaeologists in different areas of the citadel complex, followed by a complex conservation program.
Under the inspired direction of Kimmel Eshkolot Architects, Prof Etan Kimmel and lead architect Yotam Cohen-Sagi, the ancient citadel that was built as a fortress to keep people out, was transformed into a welcoming and accessible environment, ready to house a modern museum and everything that entailed. Etan Kimmel, Founder, Kimmel Eshkolot Architects on the architectural challenge: “The opportunity to bring the 21st century to this ancient iconic site is both a responsibility and an honor. We were set the task of renovating one of the earliest and most important architectural treasures of Jerusalem. Our challenge boiled down to our ability to find solutions to preserve the ancient stones which represent Jerusalem’s past without compromising their historic value or their beauty, all the while planning new architectural structures and introducing modern infrastructure using modern materials to create a fruitful, interesting meeting between the new and the old. Ever-present in our planning was our respect for this ancient structure." The result is a fully accessible museum with over 85 percent of the citadel being accessible with the newly leveled entrances to the ancient guardrooms, elevators and ramps as well as modern infrastructure, technology and networks being hidden from view.
Studio de Lange, Prof Chanan de Lange and Architect Tal Roih de Lange, developed the concept design and the permanent exhibition design of the new museum. Chanan de Lange: “This project was exceptional. To design a contemporary up-to-date exhibition in an international museum housed in a building with historical, archaeological, and cultural layers, stretching back 3,000 years of history was a challenging and unique opportunity. We created a site-specific museum experience with a modern, clean and accessible design. We adopted a minimalist and gentle approach and celebrated clean open spaces."
This minimalistic and delicate design stands in contrast to the existing powerful citadel structure. In order to balance the quantity of content, the original guardrooms of the citadel are left uncluttered with only a few wall texts. The design concept reflects the museum's wish to be used as a basis for discussion about Jerusalem and this continuing dialogue between Jerusalem's history and the present-day city can be felt in every room as Studio de Lange chose to open the existing windows of the citadel. For example, the visitor can study limestone vessels from 1st century Jerusalem against the backdrop of a view of Mishkenot Sha’ananim, thanks to vitrines created in the citadel’s arched window spaces. The design cleverly combines three main ways to engage the visitor with the history of Jerusalem: through authentic artifacts, each one carefully picked to tell different aspects of Jerusalem's history; through technology and multimedia – throughout the museum great detail has been given to the layers of technology that bring the stories to life; and through audio-visual where an audio guide will accompany visitors through the visually striking exhibition rooms. Architect Tal Roih de Lange "The result is a sensory experience that encourages active participation and allows visitors to engage in Jerusalem's history in various dynamic, stimulating and enjoyable ways."
Creative digital media, directed by Yoav Cohen, features digital storytelling and interactive media designed for meaningful engagement throughout the museum’s galleries. The 12-meter interactive multi-media wall, Sands of Time, that runs the length of the introductory gallery allows visitors to discover for themselves Jerusalem's 4000-year history with just a quick touch. The media concept for this interactive installation was designed by award-winning experience design firm Local Projects, responsible for the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, amongst others, in the US. The end-design and programming were carried out by Shortcut Playground, Israel. Other highlights include the animation of a map from 1584 depicting Jerusalem during the time of the Second Temple; the 3D scanning of a bird's eye view of 19th century model of Jerusalem and the recreation of the interactive projection on a copy of the 6th century mosaic Madaba Map of Jerusalem, an interactive sphere of the world which is the only one in Israel and more.
Films created for the museum include an animated history of 4,000 years of Jerusalem history in three minutes by Golden Globe winner artist Ari Folman; several animated short films related to different periods based on archaeological and historical evidence, together with research and the reconstruction from Yeshiva University NY, the visualization of the Arch of Titus; a 360-degree filming inside the Dome of the Rock and the Al Aqsa mosque that allows visitors to "enter" into these holy sites. An original film of Jerusalem from 1896, including footage by the Lumiere brothers, has been edited to bring to life Jerusalem at the turn of the 20th century. A montage of images from different religious festivals are projected onto one of the vaulted ceilings in a guardroom. Created by David Polonsky, one of the most important illustrators working in Israel today, the seven-minute experience allows the three calendars of Judaism, Christianity and Islam to converge in an only-in-Jerusalem manner.
The Museum kicks off its first summer season with a special opening event for the public on June 1st with events throughout the month ending with the last weekend in June with a back-to-back program of guided tours, all starting at the Tower of David and spreading out into both the old and the new city. In July, an interactive multi-media exhibition "Street Games" allows the visitor to become the "architect of the city" with well-known Jerusalem streets in the new Gallery space dedicated to changing exhibitions. Throughout the summer, there are activities for families and children. For more information and ticket purchase, please see our website www.tod.org.il
Dame Vivien Duffield, Chairman of the Clore Israel Foundation: We hope that we have created a striking 21st century museum that has balanced the architectural and structural preservation of the ancient fortress against adaptation for exhibitions that now contain artifacts with a wealth of modern technologies. Today, the museum is the center for learning and knowledge, leading to dialogue and understanding in this city. The Tower of David should continue to be a beacon of peace, tolerance, and coexistence among the inhabitants of this extraordinary mosaic of people who live in this wonderful city.”
President of the State of Israel, Isaac Herzog: In the book Song of Songs, King Solomon writes, “Like the Tower of David is your neck, built as a fortress.” Indeed, thanks to its fantastic location and its extraordinary appearance, this citadel has become throughout the ages a symbol of the magic and longing for this city and for everything that it represents. The generous support of Dame Vivien Duffield and all the partners involved have facilitated not only the preservation of the citadel but also the extensive renovation of the archaeological park and the establishment of galleries and new exhibits, as well as the renewal of infrastructure and improvements for accessibility.”
Mayor of Jerusalem Moshe Lion: “The Jerusalem municipality is honored to be a leading partner in the conservation and renewal of the Tower of David Jerusalem Museum. Jerusalem is like no other city, and the Tower of David Jerusalem Museum is like no other city museum. The ancient citadel has been the symbol of the city through the ages and one of the most important historic and archaeological heritage sites in the world. The new Tower of David Jerusalem Museum at the Jaffa Gate will serve as the new gateway to Jerusalem for the millions of visitors, tourists and pilgrims who want to explore the city’s rich and complex history before visiting the religious sites and ancient alleyways of the Old City.”
Eli Escusido, Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority: "The extensive renewal and conservation of the Tower of David are an unusual opportunity for us in the Israel Antiquities Authority to re-examine and learn more about one of the most fascinating sites in Jerusalem.
Our archaeologists discovered ancient fortifications, hidden passageways, previously unknown rooms, and more. The meticulous conservation of the minaret by the conservation department of the Israel Antiquities Authority will allow the Tower of David minaret to stand strong for many generations to come. The story of the citadel continues to be revealed in front of our eyes, and now will be presented to the public within the framework of the new museum."
Eilat Lieber - Director and Chief Curator of the Tower of David Jerusalem Museum, Tal Kobo - Curator of the Permanent Exhibition, Yael Brandt – Assistant Curator, Kimmel Eshkolot Architects: Prof Etan Kimmel Co-Founder and Lead Architect Yotam Cohen-Sagi, Studio de Lange: Prof. Chanan de Lange and Arch. Tal de Lange - Concept and permanent exhibition design, Yoav Cohen – Creative and Digital Media Director
About the Tower of David Jerusalem Museum
Located at the Jaffa Gate entrance to the Old City, the Tower of David Jerusalem Museum resides within the ancient citadel, once the fortress defending the city. Today, it stands as a prominent cultural institution, intertwining the historical narrative of Jerusalem with its significance to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Its archaeological excavations reveal the city's evolution across 3,000 years, while educational programs, guided tours, workshops, and lectures offer immersive learning experiences. The museum showcases temporary exhibitions featuring Jerusalem's contemporary expressions in art, design, architecture and more. The museum rests on the seam between modern and ancient Jerusalem and its towers offer spectacular 360-degree views of the entire city, new and old. As daylight fades, the citadel walls transform into a canvas for mesmerizing sound and light displays, projecting the history of Jerusalem and the tale of King David in huge breathtaking images. The museum, an independent nonprofit, strives to honor its commitment to preserving Jerusalem's rich heritage.
General information / about accessibility at the museum Phone: 02-626-5393 email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
To order guided tours: 02-626-5347
To order tickets : *2884 | 02-626-5333
https://www.facebook.com/towerofdavid
https://www.facebook.com/midgal.david
https://www.instagram.com/towerofdavid
https://www.youtube.com/user/towerofdavidmuseum
Photos by Silvia G. Golan
More Pics & videos at Facebook Diplomacy Israel / Israel Diplo / Silvia G Golan
- Details
- Written by Silvia G. Golan
Eylon Levy, a former Israeli Government spokesperson, called on the Government of Israel to establish an elite team of spokespeople in all languages, and in all time zones - a special forces unit able to spring into action at a moment’s notice, anywhere in the world, properly armed with the ammunition, backup, and defensive gear - during a keynote address at the B’nai B’rith World Center Award for Journalism Recognizing Excellence in Diaspora Reportage held yesterday (May 26) in Jerusalem.
Held for the 32nd consecutive year, the ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries including the Minister of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Anti-Semitism, Amichai Chikli, who also delivered a speech.
Levy emphasized that the October 7 disaster triggered a regional conflict that escalated into a global war against Jews worldwide. He stated that Israel is losing the information battle in the international media, which is portraying Israel unjustly in this conflict. He stressed that the purpose of the State of Israel is to stop complaining about the hostility Jews face and suggested that the Israeli government should establish an elite team of professional, multilingual spokespersons that would represent Israel in global media at all times and locations. Suitable candidates for this global outreach can be found among new immigrants and in the Diaspora, serving as a force multiplier. He emphasized that this global battle for Israel's international standing requires a united front, leveraging the strength of Diaspora Jewry as a powerful ally. He stressed the importance of creating a unified command center to address media crises and fortify ties with the Jewish diaspora in this shared effort. "Israel is the only country required to defend itself in the court of global public opinion around the clock. It isn't fair. It isn't right. It isn't just. But it is what it is".
This year’s winners are Elad Simchayoff, European correspondent for Channel 12 News and Canaan Lidor, Jewish World reporter for The Times of Israel.
Lidor was recognized in the written media category, in memory of Luis and Trudi Schydlowsky, for his extensive coverage on various issues concerning the Jewish world and Jewish communities in Holland, Tunisia, the U.S. and elsewhere in 2023.
Lidor has written previously for The Jerusalem Post, Haaretz and Maariv. Simchayoff was recognized in the broadcast media category for his coverage on the rising of anti-Semitism in Europe following Oct.7 and for his "One a Day" podcast series.
A special citation for Fostering Israel-Diaspora Relations through the Arts in Memory of Naomi Shemer was presented to the internationally acclaimed Israeli singer Ilanit. The citation, established in 2014, has been presented previously to singer
and songwriter Nurit Hirsh, David D’Or, Idan Raichel, David Broza, Yehoram Gaon, Shalva Band, Danny Sanderson, Shuli Natan and the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Chairman of the B'nai B'rith World Center in Jerusalem, Dr. Haim Katz, and the Director of the B'nai B'rith World Center in Jerusalem, Alan Schneider, is Director of the B'nai B'rith World Center in Jerusalem presented the prizes to the winners.
Since its establishment in 1992, the B’nai B’rith World Center Award for Journalism has recognized excellence in reporting on contemporary Diaspora Jewish communities and on the state of Israel-Diaspora relations in Israeli print, broadcast
and online media. Widely recognized as the most prestigious prize in the Israeli media industry for Diaspora reportage, it was established to help strengthen the relationship between Israel and the Diaspora.
The award is presented in memory of the late Wolf Matsdorf, editor of the World Center’s journal “Leadership Briefing” and a journalist in Israel and Australia, and his wife Hilda, a pioneer in social work in both countries, as well as in memory of Luis and Trudi Schydlowsky.
Photos credit: Bruno Charbit
- Details
- Written by Tel Aviv Global & Tourism
Over one weekend, 180 sites, tours, talks, and meetings will be held , free of charge throughout the city in private homes, public buildings, and public spaces
In the wake of the "Iron Swords" war, the Municipality of Tel Aviv-Yafo and the organizers of the event decided to hold "Open House Tel-Aviv" to celebrate our story, the miracle called State of Israel, and the story behind the building of the first Hebrew-speaking city.
The Open House Tel-Aviv event is an opportunity for the public to observe the qualities and complexities of the place where we live, to ask deep questions that are now more relevant than ever - what is a house in the physical, historical, and emotional sense? What is our belonging to this place and our connection to the city and its story?
Ron Huldai, Mayor of Tel Aviv-Yafo: "This year, more than ever, the concept of "home" is charged with new values. Since October 7, many Israeli citizens have not lived in their homes. Security and the regular and reserve security forces spent long days away from home. Many thousands who were evacuated from their homes found a home in the city of Tel Aviv-Yafo for a while and were received here with a lot of love and support. Despite this, and perhaps because of this, we decided to hold Open House, the largest and most important architecture event in Israel, and to reveal through it all the elements that make the city of Tel Aviv-Yafo a home, all the good things of this place and of the men and women who make it, and to remember what we are fighting for. Have a good time and make yourselves at home."
More About Open House Tel-Aviv is an event where numerous individuals, such as architects, developers, property owners, and institutional administrators, come together to facilitate exploration of Tel-Aviv. Inspired by similar events in London and New York, it opens up various private spaces like designer lofts, urban villas, synagogues, public buildings, construction sites, plazas, and gardens for public exploration and discussion. These contributions from various stakeholders aim to offer insight into the city's essence and promote a deeper understanding of its architectural and cultural landscape.
Highlights of the "Open House" 2024 event:• Historical tours telling the story of the construction of the first Hebrew city.• Tours of new and groundbreaking educational institutions.• Introduction to public buildings designed to integrate diverse populations into urban life.• Historical tours telling the story of the construction of the first Hebrew city.• Tours of new and groundbreaking educational institutions.• Introduction to public buildings designed to integrate diverse populations into urban life.• This year, there will also be activities for children, including a theatrical journey in Park
HaTachana teaching its history.
For all tours, please click here
======================
https://visit.tel-aviv.gov.il/
- Details
- Written by Silvia Golan & Tony Levy
On May 23, 2024, The 3rd HIT Annual Euro-Asia HIT Seminar was held at HIT Holon Institute of Technology in cooperation with MFA Israel. In frontal attend distinguished delegates from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Georgia, influencers and bloggers. In the seminar participate also students from Uzbekistan complete their B.Sc. degree in Industrial Mathematics and Computer Science at HIT , Institute of Technology officials and guests. On Zoom were connected representatives from EuroAsian and Balkan countries: from Ministries of Innovation, Education, Universities, IT Centers and hubs, and HIT students and alumni from those countries as well.
HIT opens the doors for the 3rd time and organized this important seminar in two parts. In the first section participant listened lectures on innovative technologies in architecture and engineering by Prof. Haim Dotan , AI and Instructional Technologies by Dr. Dan Kohen Vaks, HIT Head of BA program Faculty of Instructional Technologies , Dr. Evgeni Smirnov on Strategies and Technologies for leadership and Mr. Oren Simanian spoke about how to build Startups and Strat Up Nation as well .
This seminar is a token of appreciation for the extensive academic activities of HIT in the region. The Institute's involvement with Eurasian countries through science and applied scientific research, serves as a bridge between cultures and peoples, as well as an Israeli strategic interest in strengthening its relations with Muslim countries that supported Israel and provided refuge for Jews who escaped the horrors of the Holocaust.
In his opening remarks, the President of HIT, Prof. Eduard Yakubov, said, "This seminar is a true expression of our vision and desire to serve as a bridge between cultures and peoples. We are proud to host the distinguished delegation and share our achievements in the academic field and technological innovation."
H.E. Ambassador of Azerbaijan Mammadov note :
It is the best example of cooperation what we are doing here. How we change our views and what recommendations you will bring to promote our people to people ties.
H.E. Ambassador of Kazakstan Yemberdiyev emphasized:
Yakubov it’s one once to me him to understand the huge man with vision and hart
Our state are linked with strong bonds and the sky is a limit
We are looking forward to working together with HIT and Israel for the bright future.
אין חכם כבעל ניסיון
H.E. Ambassador of Uzbekistan Aminov added : This seminar is one more step to grow our cooperation and to promote our initiatives.
Other invitees from the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs were Mr. Ronen Krausz, Director of the Central Asia and Caucasus Department; Mr. Ran Natanzon, Director of Innovation, and Mr. David Atar, consultant of the Central Asia and Caucasus Department.
Mr. Ronen Krausz generalized :"We need more initiatives like this. The HIT gave as again the best example of how to build a strong fundament for cooperation and promote it for the better future of our countries and people".
HIT Holon Institute of Technology has been promoting since 2014 the institute's international strategy with Euro-Asia countries. HIT is proud of his strong ties with those countries. Building the bridge between HIT and Euro-Asia academic, innovation, government, etc., institutions institute also built strong foundations to educate the future generation of students regarding the needs of industry and society as well. The golden triangle between academy – industry - and society is the heart of HIT’s DNA. Today Institute has scientific relations with more than 130 research institutions from 35 countries in the world, most of them with Euro-Asias countries. HIT opens for international students and holds programs for undergraduate and graduate studies in Industrial Mathematics and Computer Science, as well as student exchanges. HIT with a multidisciplinary approach is a leading factor in various fields of science, hi-tech, artificial intelligence, digital technologies for medicine, instructional technologies, industrial design, visual communication, etc. Students develop their discipline exams projects and/or final degree projects together with industry, hospitals, municipalities, governance, etc., depending on their needs.
Since 2018 HIT has been holding a bachelor's degree completion program in Industrial Mathematics and Computer Science students from universities in Euro-Asian countries. As part of this program, 59 students from Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan graduate with bachelor's degrees in 2022 and 2023. A total of 150 students enrolled in the program. The program is taught in English. The program also organizes studies of the Hebrew language.
HIT are active partners in GEW Global Entrepreneur Weeks in the region. HIT organized with Euro-Asia partners many conferences on Mathematics, Technologies of Tourism, Medicine technologies, and devices, food security, etc.. HIT organized 3 unbelievable STEM2+D (Science, Society/ Technology, Tourism/ Engineering, Education/ Mathematics, Medicine/ Design), the over-arching framework of a multi-level and multidisciplinary innovative approach. HIT is a pioneer of this unique new concept and format. All HIT initiatives are in cooperation with and with the constant support of foreign ministries of Euro-Asian countries and Israel, and other government and academic institutions.As part of the HIT undergraduate program and cooperation initiatives, Holon Institute of Technology holds seminars and meetings with the Israeli high-tech industry and the development centers of the giant companies MICROSOFT, GOOGLE, AMAZON, IBM, Facebook, etc.During HIT's last (STEM)^2+D conference in 2022 hosted by universities NUU National University of Uzbekistan-Tashkent, BuxDu Bukhara State University-Bukhara, and SSU Samarkand State University-Samarkand, HIT held the first Israel-Uzbekistan forum "Days of Science & Technology". The forum was a fruitful platform where participants from all Euro-Asia academic institutions met in focused sessions and discussed diverse aspects of international academic cooperation, the 5-year goals of academic institutions, and highlights of recent scientific achievements.The 3rd HIT Annual Euro-Asia HIT Seminar this is a natural successful continuation of the HIT's initiatives to strengthen ties with the countries of Euro-Asia. The visit reflected the positive support these countries have given Israel. Countries with a young population active on social media, constitute a significant target audience for maintaining a positive image of HIT and Israel in the academic, innovative, and social world.Mrs. Tony Levy, External relations ,President Office HIT Holon Institute of TechnologyWebs for those who are interested in learning or knowing about the Holon Institute of Technology:Photos credit Silvia G. Golan
More Pics at Facebook Diplomacy Israel / Israel Diplo / Silvia G. Golan
- Details
- Written by Silvia G. Golan
The 26th Edition of Docaviv Film Festival Presents: This year’s international program and additional events
- Dozens of award-winning documentaries about larger-than-life people and stories: John Galliano, Frida Kahlo, Agnès Varda, Anselm Kiefer, Louis C.K., and more
- Docaviv Festival arrives at Migdalor Cinema for two open-air screenings
- A tribute to Audrius Stonys—one of the world’s most prominent documentary filmmakers, a director, producer, lecturer, and trailblazer within the Baltic school of poetic documentary filmmaking
- The Yad Vashem Award: For the third year running, Docaviv and Yad Vashem will be presenting the Yad Vashem Award for an outstanding Holocaust-related documentary. This year, the $3,000 prize goes to The Commandant’s Shadow by Daniela Voelker (Tulip Entertainment, Warner Bros.)
- International guests including Alina Simone, director of Black Snow, winner of the F:ACT award at CPH:DOX festival; Audrius Stonys, who will be giving a masterclass; Maria Wider, director of Old Summer, screened in this year’s Shorts Competition; Lucie Kon, Commissioning Editor on Storyville, the BBC’s landmark international documentary strand, David Boaretto, director of April in France
- Israeli program event highlights: a special screening in memory of filmmaker Nili Tal; From the Baba Sali to Rabbi Ovadia Yosef: The Trajectories of Sephardic Rabbinic Politics in Israel
- A premiere of Jasmine Kainy’s film Beyond October 7th
The story of the Gad family from Be’eri: an intimate account of the members of one family, survivors of October 7th, as they confront trauma and grief.
May 23 through June 1, 2024 https://www.docaviv.co.il/
With the festival’s 26th edition around the corner, Docaviv is proud to announce this year’s program: a wealth of outstanding films, special events, and special guests from around the world.
This year at Docaviv—world premieres, tribute programs, Q&As with local and international filmmakers, and industry events held throughout Tel Aviv–Yafo: at the Tel-Aviv Cinematheque, Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Suzanne Dellal Center, CCA Tel Aviv–Yafo, Lev Tel Aviv Cinema, Ennis Cultural Center, Beit Radical, Migdalor Cinema, and more.
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ymd03YcjHfU
International Competition lineup:
KIX, a gritty doc that captures the fast and furious coming of age of a boy named Sanyi on the streets of Budapest. Boyz, the lives of three university students in Munich on their last summer of bromance. Favoriten by Ruth Beckermann, who quietly situated herself among the children of one class in a Viennese primary school, and skillfully captured the events that would shape their personalities. Vista Mare: The tourist season in this Italian resort town starts in February and ends in October. Vacationers arrive in droves, as do the workers who toil for them. Soundtrack to a Coup d’Etat, a brilliant and fast-paced cinematic jigsaw puzzle centered on the year 1960, when the geopolitical heat was rising rapidly (with Congo’s independence, Eisenhower vs. Khrushchev, and the UN’s challenges in the age of decolonization), as was the worldwide popularity of Armstrong, Gillespie, and Nina Simone. Marching in the Dark, a remarkable and powerful documentary about the lives of widows in rural India, who rediscover their strength. Republic: In a cramped apartment of less than 6 square meters, a young Chinese man tries to create a utopian hippie-Maoist haven. Black Snow, a riveting journalistic thriller about a Siberian housewife and mother of three who posts a video exposing the pollution caused by the coal mine near her home, and her overnight transformation into an “enemy of the people” and a fearless activist.
Arts and Culture program highlights:
High & Low: John Galliano, a chronicle of the rise and fall of superstar fashion designer John Galliano from Oscar-winning director Kevin Macdonald. Obsessed with Light, a colorful kaleidoscope of Loïe Fuller—an original and spectacular stage artist and a pioneer of performance art. Catching Fire: The Story of Anita Pallenberg: They called her a witch, a murderer, the curse of the Rolling Stones—but they never knew who Anita Pallenberg truly was. A redeeming portrait of a charismatic, rebellious, addicted, and addicting Sixties persona—a woman who sank into the depths of darkness and rose back up again and again. The Stones & Brian Jones by bio-doc master Nick Broomfield, who delves into the story of Brian Jones, founder of the Rolling Stones, a musical genius, sex symbol, and lost soul who left this world at the age of 27, forever young.
Omar & Cedric: If This Ever Gets Weird, a loud, bare-all wild ride into the lives of two musicians (At the Drive-In and The Mars Volta) who went full blast in their music and friendship. Fanny: The Other Mendelssohn, a cinematic bio-symphony dedicated to Fanny Mendelssohn, a musical prodigy sidelined by social constraints and her famous composer brother. Frida, the story of Frida Kahlo—artist, lover, icon—told in her own words and with stunning animations. Viva Varda! The rich personal archive of Agnès Varda, the anarchist sorceress of French cinema, opens for the first time. Baldiga: Provocative, extravagant, all in, all the time—the photographer who blazed fast and hard through 1980s Berlin. Ricardo and Painting: Seen through the eyes and brush of painter Ricardo Cavallo, the world is a bottomless fount of inspiration. Directed by Cavallo’s close friend, renowned filmmaker Barbet Schroeder.
Master Filmmakers program highlights:
Wandering Letter by Nurith Aviv: a multilingual, intellectually stimulating yet deeply personal exploration of the consonant “R,” its varied pronunciations, and how they reflect where we come from—or where we wish to belong. Anselm by Wim Wenders—a 3D study of Anselm Kiefer’s monumental artworks and a dialogue between two phenomenal artists. (Screened in 2D and 3D). Menus-Plaisirs—Les Troisgros master of observation Frederick Wiseman’s new film about La Maison Troisgros, a well-orchestrated three-Michelin-star family restaurant—a paradise for foodies and appreciators of refined aesthetics. Madame Hofmann by Sébastien Lifshitz, premiering internationally: the heartwarming portrait of Sylvie, an executive nurse on the verge of retirement who gains a new appreciation for the important people in her life: her mother, husband, and daughter. A film about compassion and acceptance.
This year’s Masters Program will celebrate one of the world’s most prominent documentary filmmakers, Audrius Stonys—a director, producer, and lecturer, and a trailblazer within the Baltic school of poetic documentary filmmaking. While deeply rooted in the locations and their history, his work manages to rise above time, reflecting a constant preoccupation with freedom—whether personal, collective, artistic, or ethical. As a tribute to Stonys, the festival will screen seven of his feature and short films and hold a masterclass with him. Stonys’ short films will be screened during the masterclass:
UKU UKAI (2006, 30 min), Earth of the Blind (1992, 25 min), Harbour (1998, 10 min), Alone (2001, 10 min), Bridges of Time (2018, 78 min), Woman and the Glacier (2016, 56 min), Ramin (2011, 58 min)
Beyond the Screen Competition highlights:
Where We Used to Sleep, a sensitive and beautiful debut film about a woman whose heart overflows with longing for a different time as she bears witness to an ecological disaster. In the Rearview: Amid minefields and artillery fire, a rescue van becomes a safe and intimate space for refugees from the Ukrainian war zone. As they recount their hardships, their testimonies form a multi-layered, heartrending record of the cost of war and the longing for normalcy. Silent Trees: After a tragic incident at the Belarusian–Polish border, a Kurdish girl who fled to Europe with her family is forced to grow up quickly to raise her four brothers and fulfill her own dreams.
Depth of Field Competition highlights:
E.1027 – Eileen Gray and the House by the Sea, the brilliant and visually striking reenactment of a turbulent historical affair about art, passion, and power struggles. sr: a masterfully crafted, visually and intellectually stimulating documentary essay that invites us to ponder the giraffe’s surprising geopolitical manifestations throughout history, from its role in religious myths to its status as a valuable commodity. Alreadymade: Duchamp’s iconic “Fountain” changed the face of art, but could it be that the story behind the artwork that brought “the real thing” to the museum is itself a fabrication? Mud: Seemingly untouched by time, the famous mudbaths of Essentuki welcome anyone who needs healing and relaxation while the sounds of war, mere kilometers away, ring clear for all to hear. The First Days, an anthropological and lyrical portrait of a place, like a freely improvised song from an unknown culture. Under a Blue Sun, the story of how indigenous lands were made into lucrative locations for high-budget film productions, and about the imaginaries projected onto the surface of the desert land.
The lineup for Docaviv’s Oscar-qualifying Shorts Competition:
1001 Nights, a humorous doc about a typical afternoon in a pensioner’s apartment, with a soap opera playing on the TV. 14 Paintings, in which paintings and the places they are displayed tell a story about capitalism, creativity, and social constraints. Valley Pride, a mesmerizing creative documentary about the eco-catastrophe that is California’s “agricultural wonder.” Echo, in which two stuttering teenagers undergoing speech therapy learn to accept themselves and stop being afraid. The Passing, a heartfelt film about our four-legged friends and the compassionate vets who grant them one last kindness. Goodbye First Love, in which, on the blurred line between truth and fiction, two strangers who were once lovers meet for the last time. The Medallion, the story of a mother who saw her life upended as a teenager, and her daughter, who delves into her mother’s past and discovers a dark chapter in Ethiopia’s history. Whole Family, a sad and funny intimate portrait of one family coping with grief during the pandemic. Au Revoir, Pugs, in which a flash of memory about the filmmaker’s childhood dogs drives him to investigate whether the events as he recalls them had happened at all. Old Summer, a bittersweet comedy about Krystyna, 72, who goes out looking for love, but will settle for one good date.
Panorama program highlights:
Fly, a dizzyingly fast-paced doc by Shaul Schwarz and Christina Clusiau about the love of danger shared by couples addicted to BASE jumping. April in France, a glimpse into the rich and imaginative kingdom of childhood, as seen through the eyes of five-year-old April, who goes on holiday in a village in France and transforms the lives of the adults around her. Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story, a breathtaking and heartwarming National Geographic production about an unlikely bond between a lonely man and a friendly otter, set against the stunning backdrop of an island and a bay in Scotland. Daughter of Genghis, an impressive and impactful documentary that skillfully weaves together drama, politics, and even mysticism to tell the story of a single mother who sets out to save the Mongolian people—her people—by ensuring their blood remains pure. But can she save herself? Wilding, a magical and beautiful wildlife documentary about a couple who decide to heal their land—a countryside estate in the south of England—by rewilding it. Sorry/Not Sorry: His comeback tour may be called “SORRY,” but is Louis C.K.’s bare-all confession just another clever and cynical ruse that only serves to reaffirm the power dynamic? Maya and the Wave, a high-adrenaline sports documentary centered on Brazilian surfer Maya Gabeira, whose passion for the big waves led her to overcome all the obstacles—natural and human—on her way to the world championship. The Gullspång Miracle: Enlisted by a pair of elderly sisters to document a touching family story, the filmmaker gets caught up in a convoluted mystery that threatens to reopen old wounds and change the futures of everyone involved. Agent of Happiness: Amber, a happiness agent sent by the Kingdom of Bhutan, travels the small country to meet the locals and find out what makes them happy.
Events and collaborations in this year’s festival:
- The Yad Vashem Award: For the third year running, Docaviv and Yad Vashem will be presenting the Yad Vashem Award for an outstanding Holocaust-related documentary. This year, the $3,000 prize goes to The Commandant’s Shadow by Daniela Voelker (Tulip Entertainment, Warner Bros)
- Docaviv Festival arrives at Migdalor Cinema for two open-air screenings.
Enjoy great music and superb documentaries in a historic venue with a gorgeous Tel Aviv seaside view. For the best experience, we recommend bringing your favorite chair and getting to the venue an hour early to catch the sunset and relax with a drink.
1 Rekhav’am Ze’evi Gandi Street, just north of the Tel Aviv Port, at the historic lighthouse complex in Reading Park. What’s on:
Maya and the Wave | Tuesday | May 28 | 20:30
Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story | Wednesday | May 29 | 20:00
- Once again, Docaviv arrives at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art with the very best art, design, and culture documentaries. Some of the screenings will be prefaced by short talks by the museum’s curators. Thanks to the partnership between Docaviv and the museum, film lovers can enjoy fascinating and enriching films and visit art exhibitions by brilliant Israeli and international artists.
Saturday | May 25 | Tel Aviv Museum of Art, Asia Hall
10:00 | Frida | Intro by Noa Rosenberg, Curator of Modern Art, Tel Aviv Museum of Art
12:30 | Alreadymade | Intro by Galit Landau-Epstein, Associate Curator of Contemporary Art
15:00 | Sorry/Not Sorry
17:30 | High & Low: John Galliano | Intro by Noa Finkels, Head of the Museum’s Art and Culture Learning Center
20:30 | Anselm | Intro by Tal Lanir, Associate Curator for Special Projects
- Special 3D screenings of Anselm at Lev Tel Aviv Cinema: Anselm Kiefer’s giant art installations come to life in Wim Wenders’ mesmerizing and immersive film.
Saturday | May 25 | 11:00 | Lev Tel Aviv cinema
Friday | May 31 | 11:00 | Lev Tel Aviv cinema
- Docaviv at Beit Radical
Located at Complex 3426, Beit Radical is a social and cultural hub where the next generation of Israeli trailblazers and change-makers can grow and evolve. It is a space for grassroots organizations and a venue for local culture events, films, talks, workshops, and performances, as well as a library. This is where the change we want to see in the world is made.
HaThiya corner of Hertzl Street, Tel Aviv–Yafo
What’s on:
Wilding | Thursday | May 30 | 20:00
Student Competition winning films | Friday | May 31 | 20:00
- Docaviv is coming to CCA Tel Aviv–Yafo with a screening of the film Baldiga. The screening will take place at the opening of the exhibition “On a Silver Platter: Artists to Benefit CCA,” a fundraiser to support the center and its programs, as well as to mark the center’s 25th anniversary. 2a Tsadok Hacohen St., Tel Aviv–Yafo
Thursday | May 23 | 20:00
Israeli program events:
- From the Baba Sali to Rabbi Ovadia Yosef: The Trajectories of Sephardic Rabbinic Politics in Israel
Monday | May 29 | 14:45 | Cinematheque 4 | In collaboration with Van Leer Jerusalem Institute
Rafael Balulu’s film The Last Righteous Man tells the story of the Abuhazira family and its impact on the development of North African identities, culture, and politics in Israel.
Ofer Pinchasov’s film King of Sephardim follows the life of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef and delves into his social, religious, and political impact on key issues that have shaped Israeli society and politics as we know them.
The discussion will revolve around these historic figures and the sociopolitical sphere they created, a sphere that has become central to any attempt to understand contemporary Israeli society and its driving forces. - A Special Screening in Memory of Filmmaker Nili Tal
Saturday | June 1 | 20:30 | Cinematheque 2
Nili Tal, one of the most prolific filmmakers in the Israeli documentary industry, has produced dozens of documentaries over the years and has won The Israeli Documentary Filmmakers’ Forum Lifetime Achievement Award and the Ministry of Culture and Sport’s Lifetime Achievement Award in Cinema. To celebrate her work, Docaviv will screen Sixty and The City, Nili Tal’s candid documentary about her own search for love. - Accessible screening: Docaviv invites you to a screening of the film Rabbi Capoeira, made accessible by The Center for Accessible Culture (founded by the Library for the Blind) for this year’s festival.
In addition to the accessible screening, the film’s audio descriptions will be available on the GRETA app, enabling film-goers to listen to audio descriptions on their phone and enjoy the film at any of its screenings during the festival.
International program selection committee:
Artistic Director of Docaviv Festival Karin Rywkind Segal, Tal Arditi, Dr. Nir Ferber, Dr. Laliv Melamed, and Docaviv Festival Program Manager Anat Nattel.
Photo Silvia G Golan
