|
Dear Friends of KUNSTENISRAËL,
Since 2011, Stichting Nederlands Fonds voor Israëlische Cultuur, working under the name KUNSTENISRAËL, has developed an array of programs to put Israeli art and artists of diverse genres – music, dance, theater, film, visual arts, literature – prominently on the Dutch map. Our grant program, monthly newsletter, curatorial research trips to Israel, concert series and extensive networking have helped launch dozens of international careers and have bolstered the interest of Dutch audiences in Israeli art and artists across the cultural spectrum.
In recent months, closed venues, travel restrictions and cancelled performances have decreased our effectiveness while increasing the urgency of our work. In response, the board of directors has investigated various options for continuing to provide meaningful support for artists from Israel. We are therefore pleased to inform you of our plan to assure continuity in the realisation of our mission; a three-pronged cooperation that offers new opportunities and expertise exceeding the capacity of a standalone organization.
 • The New York based foundation Artis (artis.art) was organising research trips for curators long before our foundation came on the scene. Despite the pandemic and even a lockdown in Israel, Artis has continued to provide a bridge between visual artists in Israel and curators around the world by means of grants to museums and art institutions, virtual studio visits and artist interviews. Artis' focus on Israeli visual art and artists makes them uniquely positioned to engage the curators who are already a part of our network and, when the situation permits, others yet to come.
 • The Dutch foundation Crescas (crescas.nl) currently sends their weekly newsletter to thousands of subscribers, with a extensive overview of Jewish culture, including literature and online presentations. Natascha van Weezel, who has edited our newsletter for several years, will join their crew, supplementing their newsletter and website with Israeli art and culture tips. With weekly emails, subscribers will have the benefit of the most up-to-date culture tips available.
• Over the years, our director Ken Gould has successfully engaged his extensive personal and professional network for the benefit of hundreds of Israeli artists. He has also presented nearly 100 concerts, most recently via livestream. In the coming weeks we will pass the torch to a new board of directors with Ken as chair. When the circumstances allow, they plan to resume the concert series and networking activities.
Artis and Crescas are both non-profit organisations that rely on donor support, and we hope that our Friends will consider supporting these worthy organisations. Due to privacy regulations, we are not allowed to pass on contact information, but you can e-mail us requesting to be added to their mailing lists or make use of the following links. Both organisations allow you to unsubscribe at any time.
With this new cooperation, we are excited to be opening new doors for our subscribers, supporters, and most importantly, for the Israeli artists whom we have worked to support for more than nine years. Thank you again for your interest in, and support for, art and artists from Israel.
Sincerely,
Board of Directors, Stichting Nederlands Fonds voor Israëlische Cultuur
Els H. Swaab, chair
Evert van den Bergh, treasurer
Jigal Schrijver, secretary
|
