February 7, 2022, Updated February 8, 2022

Calling all art fanatics! Are you looking for a place that has great food, culture, history, and last, but certainly not least, art? Look no further because Israel is the place to be. The land’s rich history and progressive culture has resulted in a diverse selection of art ranging from mosaic art to fine art and everything in between. Even though Israel is a small country, there is a huge range of different kinds of art museums, and in many different cities too! With more than 200 museums, it is home to the highest number of museums per capita in the world! For those art junkies who need some direction on where to visit during their next in person or virtual art excursion, here are some of our recommendations…

#1 The Negev Museum of Art (Beersheva)

The Negev Museum of Art. Photo by Makarenko7/Shutterstock.com

Get overwhelmed in big museums easily? Well then the Negev Museum of Art is the perfect place for you! Even though it might not be large in size, the museum building holds large historical significance. The museum typically displays modern art from regional and local areas, and you can find more information about the past and current exhibitions on their website. In addition to housing hundreds of beautiful art pieces, the space itself is used for events like weddings and art classes. If you’re ever in Beersheva, the Negev Museum of Art should definitely be a pitstop in your day for some much needed one-on-one time with art.

More information can be found here!

#2 Design Museum Holon (Holon)

Design Museum Holon
Design Museum Holon

To begin, the Design Museum’s building is a work of art! This modern contemporary structure was designed by an Israeli architect named Ron Arad. The museum itself opened up in 2010, and even though it’s fairly new, it is already known as one of the world’s top design museums. Exhibits span focuses on design, fashion, jewelry and architecture. More about the current displays can be found on their website! However, if you are currently in Israel, take a look at their ball gown exhibit; it is not only gorgeous but also provides great perspectives on the world of fashion.

If you would like to know more about the recent exhibits at Design Museum Holon, check out this article!

#3 The Israel Museum (Jerusalem)

The Israel Museum in Jerusalem.

We wouldn’t be providing a complete list of recommendations if we didn’t include the iconic Israel Museum, in the heart of Jerusalem. The museum holds around 500,000 pieces of art ranging from a selection of historical, archeological and visual classifications. In addition to those pieces, there is a beautiful outdoors garden that displays sculptures and a replica of the city of Jerusalem. My first trip to the Israel Museum was when I was a child, and to this day I still vividly remember my visit. We suggest that you allot a long period of time for this museum, as it is large in both size and their selection of exhibits. For current exhibits on display and any Covid-19 regulations you might want to consider, their website is located here.

More information can be found here!

#4 ANU Museum of the Jewish People (Tel Aviv)

Exterior of ANU – Museum of the Jewish People. Photo courtesy of ANU

Are you interested in learning how the Jewish people have evolved over time? ANU – The Museum of the Jewish People located on Tel Aviv University’s campus just finished a makeover and is ready for you to visit! This Museum highlights every step of the Jewish people’s journey across 4,000 years. Combining both technological and physical displays, visitors get a one-of-a-kind experience of how the Jewish people have changed as one people and across the world. If you’d like to tour the new ANU Museum, visit their website here.

Additional information can be found here!

#5 Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art (Haifa)

The Tikotin Museum of Japanese Art epitomizes the concept that art connects all of us globally. With the first and only kind in the Middle East, this extensive Japanese collection displays thousands of years of history through visual arts, textiles, ceramics, and many other artistic mediums. Through this incredible, world shaping space, individuals have the ability to connect to their continental friends without ever having to leave their home country. Curious about Japanese art? Check out their latest exhibits here.

If you want to read more about this museum, click here!

Everywhere you turn in Israel, you are greeted with extraordinary landmarks, amazing archeological sites and thousands of years of culturally dense history. In addition to the landscape, there are vital pieces of visual art pieces and locations which enhance Israel’s vast history. This is truly a unique experience for all of Israel’s inhabitants and visitors! Check out ISRAEL21c’s website for more information on these museums and others in the area.

Groundbreaking Israel content is developed by ISRAEL21c’s Digital Ambassadors.

My name is Naamah Barbut and I am a Junior at Rutgers University studying Communications with a specialization in Public Relations. I am passionate about my Israeli culture and love intertwining my Jewish identity in my everyday life. As a part of the ISRAEL21c team, I can channel both my love for Israel and my passion for marketing and communication into one. I have enjoyed my time at the organization so far and am eager to continue educating about Israel in a different and positive manner!

My name is Jess Sender and I am a Senior at Tulane University studying Art History and Communications. My passion for Israeli culture stems from both my Jewish identity as well as my experiences in Israel, studying and immersing myself within the rich history. Collaborating with ISRAEL21c allows me to practice communication skills as well as share my experience with others across the world!

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