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Judaica in Art: The Star of David in Modern Jewish Art

Star of David on Abstract Background, watercolor painting, the Star of David in modern jewish art
Star of David on Abstract Background, watercolor painting, © Rhonda Roth, All Rights Reserved. Buy on Saatchi

The Star of David in modern Jewish art has undergone a transformation in its iconography, reimagined and reinvented by artists conveying diverse meanings and messages. Artists employ innovative techniques and mediums presenting this ancient symbol in new and thought-provoking ways. Continuing the Judaica in Art series, we look at three artists depicting the Star of David in modern Jewish art: Abraham Rattner, Yaakov Agam, and Samuel Bak.

Abraham Rattner: The Star of David with Bold Colors and Expressionism in Modern Jewish Art

Study of Color, Panel C, Chicago Loop Synagogue Window, crayon, ink, pencil on paperboard by Abraham Rattner, Star of David in modern jewish art
Study of Color, Panel C, Chicago Loop Synagogue Window, crayon, ink, pencil on paperboard by Abraham Rattner

Artist Abraham Rattner (1895-1978) was born in Poughkeepsie, NY. Captivated by the paintings of Monet, he lived in Paris before returning to New York. His artwork is known for its bold colors and Expressionistic styles.

His artwork appears in many notable museums including The Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City and The Art Institute of Chicago.

Star of David, pencil, ink, watercolor, by Abraham Rattner, Star of David in modern jewish art
Star of David, pencil, ink, watercolor, by Abraham Rattner

Yaakov Agam: The Star of David in Op art

Star of Hope by Yaakov Agam, Star of David in modern jewish art
Star of Hope by Yaakov Agam

Yaakov Agam (1928 – ) is an Israeli artist widely known for his abstract Op art and Kinetic art.

Also a sculptor, his work appears in many outdoor public places worldwide. New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) holds many of his works.

Revelation by Yaakov Agam, Star of David in modern jewish art
Revelation by Yaakov Agam

Samuel Bak: The Star of David and the Holocaust

the ghetto by Samuel Bak, Star of David in modern jewish art
The Ghetto by Samuel Bak

Lithuanian born artist Samuel Bak (1933- ), a Holocaust survivor, held his first art exhibition in the Vilna Ghetto at age nine. After the war, he studied art at the Betzalel Academy of Arts and Design, and later in Paris.

Bak’s artwork is described as Post-Modernism, and utilizes aspects of Judaism combined with the Holocaust.

yellow by Samuel bak, Star of David in modern jewish art
Yellow by Samuel Bak

The Legacy of the Star of David in Modern Jewish Art

The Star of David remains a timeless symbol that transcends generations, bridging the past with the present in the realm of Jewish art. Its enduring presence in modern artistic expression showcases the ongoing exploration of identity, faith, and cultural heritage. As artists continue to interpret and reimagine the Star of David in innovative ways, the significance of this symbol in modern Jewish art serves as a testament to its enduring power and relevance in the artistic landscape.

Havdalah Spice Box Tower, Cup, and Candle, watercolor painting, buy on Saatchi
Havdalah Spice Box Tower, Cup, and Candle, watercolor painting, © Rhonda Roth, All Rights Reserved. Buy on Saatchi

The history of the Star of David: The Origin of the Star of David as a Jewish Symbol


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