Art in the Kibbutz

1948-58

based on "Universal & International: Art in the Kibbutz in the first decade" by Galia Bar Or

"(...) during the state's first decade it was the kibbutz movements that led to the thrust to constitute a local identity and an ethos of culture, and developed a fascinating repertoire of approaches to art's role in society."

More than propaganda

• Cultural projects for all citizens
• Spontaneous creativity from the bottom

Kibbutz artzi

• Connected to Hashomer Hatzair trade union and Mapam labour party
• Going with the people - understandable art
• Far from socialist realism
• A turn towards modern art ca. 1957

Kibbutz meuhad

• Connected to the Histadrut labour movement
• Universal art
• Abstract directions
• The individual is an important part of society
• Emphasis on Jewish contexts

unique themes

• Dialogue with past
• Portrayal of Arab refugees and villages
• Decorations
• The space of the Kibbutz is important

festive art - decorations

• Interdisciplinary: art & craft, high & low, abstract & figurative
• Kibbutz Dati (religious kibbutz) - stained glass windows & illustrated mahzor (prayer book for High Holidays) in dining room

thanks for listening!

by Igor Bloch & Monika Dembinska

Kibbutz Degania Bet