CREATORS CURATORS

Art Picks by Udit Belkine

We sat down with Udit for a short conversation... in which she shared her unique selection journey with us:

Briefly describe the collection:
"I chose works that touched my heart and with which I felt a connection. I love works that allow you to feel the material on one hand, and works with architectural and graphic elements on the other. In my opinion, a good collection combines high and low art, two and three dimensions, figurative and abstract, diverse techniques, and absolute silence. The true value of a collection is, first and foremost, the connection of the person who owns it to it."

What theme guided you in selecting the works?
"There wasn't such a theme, and in my opinion, it's not right to create a collection around a theme. If there's one thing I consider, apart from intuition and emotional connection with the work, it's my daughter. It's important for me to know and understand what speaks to her, and to consider her opinion regarding our home environment. In retrospect, when I placed the works side by side, I identified the connecting threads between them. That's how I believe a collection should be created. Things will blend together by virtue of the fact that a particular person chose them."

What is your earliest memory of art?
"In my grandparents' house in Yemin Moshe, Jerusalem, there were many artworks because that was the kind of people they socialized with. I remember myself in museums from as far back as I can recall. My mother, a museologist by profession, and my father, who loved art very much, used to take us to experience art in Israel and abroad from a very young age, just as I do today with my daughter. I don't have a specific place in mind that was the first, because it was naturally always in the background."

And what led you to start collecting art?
"Actually, I didn't start collecting art. Today, my daughter and I live in my parents' house, which was my childhood home and where there's a mix of old Israeli art from my grandparents alongside more contemporary Israeli art that my parents added. In my turn, I incorporate my own and my daughter's works into the collection and display, side by side, 'esteemed' works alongside works that touch my heart, without hierarchy and without considering their monetary value."

Do you have any advice you'd like to give a budding collector?
"An art collection is not an obligation. It's a privilege. I'm less inclined to match art to home decor. If art is chosen in the same spirit that we choose what is right for our home, they will undoubtedly connect into a wonderful harmony that is pleasant and enjoyable to live with."

Is there anything you'd like to add following your acquaintance with the diverse works at Gallery 1of135?
"Many people don't live with art in their homes, whether they are unaware of its importance, or can't afford it, or simply because it's not on their agenda. The offerings and diversity at Gallery 1of135, and the ability to consult with experts for art acquisition, are definitely a positive step in terms of education that can not only raise public awareness of art and its importance, but also allow broad audiences to enjoy and afford excellent art at various prices."

Thank you, Udit, it was a pleasure!
We view designers as full partners and quality ambassadors in promoting and assisting in art education in general, and Israeli art in particular. It's easy to see how the works Gil chose, even for a moment, can instill in us hope and optimism for better and quieter days!