Aviva Shemer’s creative works have multiple aspects. The artist received a degree in Jewish philosophy from the University of Haifa, and is descended from a line of rabbinical scholars. Her roots and her education shed light upon and enlighten her creative works with spirituality. This aspect is expressed in place of the book in her sculpture and in place of the Hebrew letter that ties the work together to the Jewish tradition. The presence of the book and the letters allows a dialogue to exist between the spoken language and the artistic language, creating a conversation between the basic building blocks of the two languages.

In Aviva Shemer’s creations there is a strong presence of color, both in the paintings on fabric and on paper. The drawing done in oil-based crayons is an impressive expression of skill – Aviva Shemer plays a melody upon the paper. The color connects us to the deep excitement of the Mediterranean and to our existence in the Middle East. The drawing in oil-based colors echoes within the observer, thrusting him into a colorful whirlpool that shakes him out of his apathy.

Aviva Shemer’s sketchbook, published by Haifa Museum and Sifriat Ha Poalim, presents the ability to sketch using concentrated observation. The sketches are minimalist and precise.

Aviva Shemer’s sculpture is expressed in various shapes and materials, including stone. The clean shapes remind one of the beginnings of modernism. Part of the sculptures and some of her installations as well express the place of the spiritual world in the world of the artist.

Roni Rehav
Curator