Judaica art is an all-encompassing term that refers to an array of objects used by Jewish people for cultural and religious reasons. The term is nothing new. Many of the same ceremonial and sacred objects that existed thousands of years ago are still in use today.

The concept of Judaica art is broken down into 3 different categories: Traditional, Modern, and Contemporary.

Traditional Judaica art is a category of art that includes things like Shabbat candles, Passover plates, menorahs, tallitot, and other sacred Jewish ceremonial objects.  The designs are usually influenced by the historical styles.

Modern Judaica art, on the other hand, is both innovative and historical. The objects are very similar to the traditional Judaica art, but are designed with a modern twist.

The final category of Judaica art is contemporary, meaning “the art of today”.  This is artwork that is new and made by promising Israeli artists. These artists have skillfully transcended the themes of traditional and modern Judaica to form motifs that are not only unique, but beautiful and elegant as well.

Contemporary artists like Ariela Wertheimer, Alex Levin, and Menucha Page, are some of the best-known names in the world of Judaica art. They created a large selection of Jewish art that appeals to both traditional and non-traditional Jews and added dimensions to everyday Jewish symbols. Their contributions are incalculable as the popularity of their work continues to grow.

In this blog post, we explore the contemporary Judaica art movement in depth. We also examine some of the reasons why the niche is booming and growing in popularity.

What Objects Are Included in Contemporary Judaica Art?

Makers of contemporary Judaica art create kiddush cups, Shabbat candlestick, Hanukkah menorahs and Mezuzah Covers and other items that are relevant to traditional Jewish worships. The majority of the artists come from a religious background, reaching into their memory and past experience to create innovative art.

A great example would be Menucha Page. Menucha Page is a Jerusalem-based Jewish female artist who focuses on combining the ancient themes and values of the Torah with contemporary artist techniques. Much of her artwork is based on the Hebrew alphabet, the ancient Torah, and other abstract Jewish ideas and is expressed through a variety of media, such as paintings, drawings, photography, woodwork, glasswork, and metalwork.

The Growing Popularity of Contemporary Judaica Artwork

Contemporary Jewish art is a growing and developing niche in Israel and across the world. With the help of modern technology, contemporary Jewish artwork is more accessible and widespread than ever before. As a result, it has also become a large source for ornamental objects that people enjoy adorning their homes with.

The niche is no longer confined to brick-and-mortar art museums and galleries as well as private collections, which makes it even more appealing. Contemporary Judaica art can be found wherever artists can display and publish their work of art. These places include art schools, side streets, and public spaces such as trains, bus stations, malls, parks and sides of buildings. The art is also prominently posted on internet marketplaces like Etsy.com and on private e-Galleries.  Contemporary Judaica artwork indeed is ever increasing in popularity.