Mifal Hapayis (the Israel National Lottery) is opening new windows of opportunity for environmentally aware artists and designers. This year, the Arts and Culture Council turned to the public for suggestions on areas worthy of support and the people spoke up! Letting in a breath of fresh air in more ways than one, the new categories reflect a growing interest in ecology and awareness of the environment.
Seeking to encourage environmental awareness in all aspects of design, performance and art, Mifal Hapayis will give special attention to ecologically oriented projects.
In the performing arts, street theater and other performance events taking place outside conventional frameworks have been added to the list.
In the visual arts, the committee will place an emphasis on:
- Architecture and the Urban Environment
- Art and Ecology
One project already in the works is “Ecosphera” – which aims to be the largest green event held in Israel. Scheduled to take place in the Artist’s Village of Ein Hod and its environs in mid-April, the festival will be dedicated to the theme of “sustainability.”
In addition to workshops, theatrical events, and an organic farmer’s market, the highlight of the festival will be an international exhibit of green art curated by Dana Tagger.
The Board of Directors has allocated 12 million NIS to fund projects in a variety of areas. Artists, designers, cultural institutions and dreamers who would like to submit proposals may do so in the months of February and May.
More About Eco-Art:
Eco-Art Goes Urban at Gebo Gallery in Tel Aviv
Recycling Bins Take the Form of Art in Tel Aviv
Urban Design: The Traffic Circle as a Space for Art
Author: Ayelet Dekel
Ayelet was born in the sixties and the words “peace,” “love” and the “environment” still give her a thrilling rush of adrenaline and the desire to do something. Although she is not always sure what to do… it often involves words or images on a page. She studied literature at Harvard and works as a freelance writer in Tel Aviv, her articles have appeared in Haaretz and Time Out Israel. The body as an intersection of motion, thought, presence and emotion forms the focus of her drawings which are often inspired by dance. When she is not writing, drawing or drinking coffee, she can be found walking under a heavy backpack. She can be reached at Ayelet (at) greenprophet (dot) com.
Are we talking about the same Mifal Hapayis that I know?
The one that advertises and glorifies Hummers as the ultimate fun vehicle? The one that advertises giving away Hummers on TV and radio?