The short documentary The Foyer is available to watch at the top of the page.
The Tel Aviv Museum of Art is one of the most significant cultural institutions in Israel, showcasing a diverse collection of Israeli and international art. Initially established in 1932 in the home of Tel Aviv’s first mayor, Meir Dizengoff, the museum was born to promote the arts in the young city. At that time, despite the city’s economic and cultural growth, there was no permanent exhibition space for artists. Over the years, the museum expanded and relocated several times, finally settling in its current location on Shaul Hamelech Boulevard in 1971. Since then, the museum has evolved into an institution of international repute, featuring rotating exhibitions of contemporary art and a large permanent collection that includes a wide range of local and international multidisciplinary works. The Tel Aviv Museum of Art is also an architectural masterpiece. The original building, constructed in a Brutalist style, was designed by architects Yitzhak Yashar and Dan Eitan. The Herta and Paul Amir Building, added in 2011 and designed by Preston Scott Cohen, showcases a unique and contemporary geometric design.
The short documentary, The Foyer, directed by Ron Katzenelson and Michal Hominer, delves into the narrative of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art from an intriguing angle, capturing its captivating essence through the perspective of the foyer. Serving as a crucial component of the museum, the foyer acts as an entry point, information center, social space, transitional area, and venue for events. It establishes the initial impression for visitors, providing vital information and a welcoming space, aiding in the transition from the external environment to an immersive artistic journey. The foyer frequently accommodates various events, promoting community engagement and enriching the visitor experience.
Exploring the museum’s history through the foyer’s design and curatorial approach, the film shines a light on the selection of artworks and historical pieces curated by the museum’s directors over the years. The documentary includes interviews with several museum directors, shedding light on the artworks, performances and events featured in the foyer. These narratives offer insight into the museum’s evolving themes, values, and artistic viewpoints. The Foyer skillfully intertwines these aspects, offering an engaging look at the museum’s history and positioning the foyer as a dynamic narrative device that introduces visitors to the museum’s profound story.
Ron Katzenelson and Michal Hominer share, “In honor of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art’s 90th anniversary, the museum collaborated with the New Film and Television Fund to commission four short documentaries specifically for the celebration.”
Ron further explains, “Michal and I developed a unique approach to narrate the museum’s history, from its establishment in its current location in 1971 to the present, by focusing on the story of the foyer—the museum’s entry hall. Our research led us to discover historical events that were new to us. We gained insights into the curatorial decisions and artistic narratives behind the artworks displayed in the foyer, which many visitors overlook without realizing the compelling stories they hold. As a cinematographer, I’m drawn to the architectural grandeur of the foyer and the way art installations, performances, and opening events are captured from various unique perspectives through the camera. I used camera movements to mimic the visitor’s journey, presenting the space as a dynamic entity.”
Michal adds, “As a curator, it was intriguing to explore and understand the significant curatorial processes that have shaped the iconic identity of the Tel Aviv Museum of Art.”
The Tel Aviv Museum of Art spans three buildings: the main building and the Samuel and Herta Amir Building are situated on Shaul Hamelech Boulevard, near the courthouses, Beit Ariela Library, and the Opera House. Another museum building, the Helena Rubinstein Pavilion for Contemporary Art, is located next to Heichal HaTarbu and Habima Theatre on Tarsat Boulevard.
Following the massacre on October 7th, the square adjacent to the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and Beit Ariela was named “The Hostages and Missing Square.” In this location, support rallies are held, and art installations are displayed as a message of solidarity with the struggle of the families of the hostages and the missing civilians and soldiers since October 7th.
The short documentary The Foyer is available to watch at the top of the page.
