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Light in Times of War: Sagit Balas Leads an Artistic Revolution in Holon

In an unprecedented artistic phenomenon in Israel, an exhibition merging innovative techniques of art and text has become a cultural pilgrimage site during wartime
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The extraordinary success of the exhibition proves that the thirst for meaningful art only intensifies during challenging times, and Sagit Balas provides the perfect response with works that pierce straight to the heart.

While the echoes of war resound throughout the country, an exceptional phenomenon unfolds in Holon, refusing to surrender to darkness. At Gallery 58, in the heart of the city, artist Sagit Balas breaks the boundaries of traditional art with her revolutionary exhibition "Journey – Between Word and Color", setting a new standard in Israeli art.

Balas-Sagit

In what might be considered an especially bold move during these times, the Holon Municipality, led by Mayor Shai Keinan, proves that supporting art is not a luxury but an existential need. The exhibition, displayed in the heart of the city hall, makes a clear statement: Israeli culture will not surrender to harsh reality.

Balas, who grew up in the streets of Holon, presents a groundbreaking artistic language unprecedented in the local art scene. Contrary to the traditional conception that separates visual art from writing, she creates a stunning synthesis between the two. What begins as a painting transforms into a dance of words and colors, with each piece resonating with an intensity that's hard to remain indifferent to.

Scenery-Sagit-Balas

The decision to exhibit now, while the country is at war, is an act of cultural rebellion. It is a clear voice declaring: "Art will not be silenced". Curator Yotam Oren, who led this bold artistic move, has created a space that is more than just an exhibition venue – it is a sanctuary of creation in the heart of the storm.

What makes this exhibition an unprecedented phenomenon is Balas's courage to expose her soul without masks. Each creation is a living testimony to a personal journey that becomes universal. The unique technique she developed, inspired by her teacher Mimi Rosenberg, breaks all traditional conventions of the art world.

The crowds filling the exhibition space testify to an immense thirst for beauty in days of pain. Visitors report a transformative experience – a rare moment where art penetrates the veil of routine and touches the deepest points of the soul.

In a reality where many local authorities are cutting cultural budgets, Holon Municipality sets a new model of bold support for contemporary art. This is living proof that thriving culture can exist even in the shadow of war, and that art is not a luxury but oxygen for the soul.

The exhibition, continuing until February 15, 2025, is more than a collection of works – it is a living manifesto of Israeli artistic audacity. Balas proves that groundbreaking art can be created even when reality tries to dictate a different narrative (For more details, click here).

Gallery 58, 58 Weizmann Street in Holon, has become a pilgrimage site for art lovers from all over the country. Free admission allows everyone to be part of this quiet revolution, proving that the human spirit is stronger than any external reality.

Dancer-Sagit-Balas

"This is more than an artistic mission – it's a calling", Sagit Balas shared in a special response to 'Ma'akav'. "In such a complex time, when all our hearts beat to the rhythm of concern and hope, art is where we can reconnect with our humanity. Each piece in the exhibition is part of a journey we all share – a journey of pain, hope, and belief in the healing power of creation".

Balas emphasizes the importance of connection with the audience: "When I see the sparkling eyes of visitors, when I hear the emotional responses, I understand that we've created something here that goes far beyond a regular art exhibition. We've created a space of healing, of hope, of human connection. In these days, when we need every ray of light, I'm proud to be part of the cultural movement that continues to create, believe, and illuminate".

"I thank Mayor Shai Keinan and the professional team led by Yotam Oren, who understood that especially now, when everything is dark, it's important to light a cultural flame. Their support proves that art is not a luxury – it's a basic need of the soul".

Image credits: Content under Section 27a