Elchanan Halpern was born in Gunionadz, Poland in 1914. When he was 7, his family immigrated to Israel. Young Halpern was one of the founders Abba Achimeir’s “Brit – Habiryonim” (faction of the Revisionist Zionist Movement). Furthermore, as activist he participated in demonstrations and was even arrested. However, especially during this underground period he painted a lot.
The artist studied in Paris, but wanted to promote and develop the art of his country. So, when he came back, Elchanan Halpern became a founder of Israel’s Group of Ten, that aimed at giving an international focus to Israeli art.
Later, in 1960 the artist received the prestigious Dizengoff Prize. Elhanan Halpern died in Tel Aviv in 1995.
“Jerusalem” by Elchanan Halpern
The artist depicted his personal dream-like “Jerusalem”. The city is full of trees and different in style buildings. Especially roundish forms dominate, making the image more peaceful. The endless deep perspective captivates spectators. Multi-staged Jerusalem is full of light. The blue and beige colours determine Jerusalem built with limestone under the high sky.
Interestingly, even though the standpoint of many artists was similar the perception of the Holy city is incomparable. For instance, in famous Reuven Rubin’s “Jerusalem” the Temple mount appears to be flying. “Jerusalem view” by Ludwig Blum is more realistic and fascinates with its lightness and clarity. In comparison, Zvi Raphaeli‘s “Jerusalem alleyway” is totally different: narrow streets with angular buildings. Ora Nissim conveys her perception the city energy in artworks. Probably, a blog about her Jerusalem would be interesting.
Kings Gallery is a leading fine art gallery established in Jerusalem in 1995. We strive to collect and sell the highest quality historic and contemporary Israeli and International art. The gallery specializes primarily in artists from the early period of the 1920’s. Besides, Kings Gallery features leading up-and-coming young artists who will definitely be prominent names in the next few years.
