Moshav Timorim in Israel holds wartime woodturning exhibition - Israeli Culture

In a time permeated by conflict and division, the annual woodturning exhibition at Moshav Timorim represented a small moment of unity as Israeli craftsmen flocked from across the country, united by their shared passion and skill for transforming wood. into art.

Held over two days in late October, the exhibition was organized by Elisha Rubinoff, a teacher and artist with 15 years of experience in woodturning, a craft that uses a lathe to turn wood into intricate masterpieces like The Key of Time.

What began five years ago as a small exhibition for Rubinoff’s students has since grown into a major gathering for Israeli wood craftsmen; welcomed audiences from the local area and across the country to experience this delicate art form first-hand.

This year’s exhibition offered a welcome respite war, To temporarily suspend feelings of loss and destruction and make room for the spirit of creation, community and compassion.

The event celebrated the versatility of woodworking and showcased a wide range of pieces, from ornamental and ornamental creations to games, lighting fixtures, Judaica and sound boxes.

ORI AND OSNAT Yaalon’s work requires precision down to tenths of a millimeter. (credit: Amy Shapiro)

Rotem Ben-Zeev, one of the organizers, described the event as a focal point for the woodturning community in Israel, explaining: “It brings people together and talks about what they do, how they do it, what they use and what tools they like.”

Other featured artists included husband and wife team Ori and Osnat Yaalon from Neve Ilan, who honed their woodturning skills in Spain under the tutelage of master Eddy Parkiet.

Known for their one-of-a-kind living artworks with slideable lattice interiors, the Yaalons’ work requires precision down to a tenth of a millimeter.

Another important artist, Eli Avisera, added an international atmosphere to the event. Known for his expertise in woodturning, carving, sculpture and luthiery (violin making), Avisera has appeared in galleries around the world.

His 2015 work Shalom received worldwide recognition, making him a respected name in the woodworking community.

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Feeding a community

“Wood is alive,” Rubinoff said, reflecting on the unique qualities of woodworking that foster such a passionate community.

“Wood is a warm thing if you ask me,” Ben-Zeev added. “A lot of people are interested in wood.”

The duo also detailed their approach to wood sourcing practices, often through upcycling wood from local gardens.

“When they garden around villages like this, they have a special place where they throw wood,” Ben-Zeev said, describing Rubinoff’s commitment to reusing this local resource.

“Elisha is the kind of artist who plans for days and weeks,” he continued, tapping his temple.

“All the plans are here in his head; she knows exactly how to create each piece from start to finish. “This is very surprising.”

The annual exhibition not only serves to showcase the incredible talents of Israeli woodworkers like Rubinoff, but it also continues to nurture a vibrant community dedicated to the appreciation and development of Israeli craftsmen, ensuring that this rich tradition continues to thrive.