Artist Statement
In this photographic exhibition, Marilyn Freedman explores the juxtaposition of emotionally charged concepts in a country she has frequented throughout her life. Through her work, she hopes to convey the importance of peace, compassion, and empathy, urging viewers to recognize the necessity of these values in our world.
Welcome to an exploration of life in wartime Israel, as seen through my eyes as both a visitor and a volunteer. What began as a mission to serve and connect with family and friends soon evolved into a profound journey of discovery. Along the way, I found myself captivated by stories hidden in the most unexpected places.
While packaging medical instruments during my volunteer work, I noticed something that sparked my curiosity. The objects and scenes around me told stories that transcended their immediate context—stories that invited me to step outside the ordinary and experience life from a different perspective: the Israeli way. These moments compelled me to capture not just images, but conversations frozen in time—each one offering a question, an insight, or a reflection.
Vital, But We Don’t Think About These Things (A Picture tells a Million Words)
The artist has joined a global volunteer service supporting the IDF. On this trip, their job is to help package medical instruments to be sterilized and sent to the front lines, where IDF medics will use them to care for soldiers in the field.
Through this volunteer work, the artist gains a deeper understanding of the heavy toll the war has taken on Israelis. The images of the medical tools remind them of the bravery of those working to save lives amidst the chaos and the dire situation faced by those forced into a war.
As I edited these photos, certain themes began to emerge, weaving together a narrative that felt both personal and universal. It became clear that, as an artist, the visuals were leading the way, revealing the concepts and themes that now form the heart of this exhibit.
This collection is an invitation for you, the viewer, to reflect on these moments as I did—to look beyond the surface and find meaning in the details. Each image offers a window into a different way of thinking, a different way of living. This is my attempt to capture the essence of what I discovered—a way of life that is rich, complex, and deeply rooted in its unique context.
Join me on this journey. Allow yourself to see life from a new perspective, to consider the world through a different lens—the lens of service, contemplation, and the Israeli experience.
Themes that stood out for me in this time of trouble:
The Conscious and Constant Angst
This theme captures the pervasive sense of unease and vigilance that colours everyday life in Israel. The photos reveal the subtle yet profound ways in which the looming threat of conflict permeates the collective consciousness, from the guarded expressions of individuals to the tense atmosphere in public spaces.
Wearing our Hearts on Our Sleeves
The nation’s collective heart turns towards its hostages, their plight permeating every corner of life—from the moment one steps into the airport to the everyday routines around town. Signs pleading for their release plaster walls, illuminate town squares, and cover street corners and buildings. This call for justice is mirrored in the citizens themselves.
In Israel, emotions are often worn openly, with the rawness of human experience on full display. This theme highlights the visible expressions of grief, hope, love, and solidarity. It’s a testament to a society where the personal is inherently political, and where the stakes of everyday life are palpably high.
A Small Nation: One Big Family
As a Jewish nation, we all share the same lineage and gene pool derived from the four Matriarchs and three Patriarchs. Despite the ongoing danger at the southern border, where rockets from Gaza and terrorist infiltrators pose constant threats, the Nova site has become a poignant shrine of remembrance for this small nation. What was once a dance festival celebrating peace has now turned into a shrine for those who were tortured, mutilated, and slain—each loss felt deeply across the nation. People flock to the site to pay homage, remember, and reflect, united in their shared grief and solidarity. A bomb shelter, a recent installation, stands as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat, underscoring the resilience of a nation where every tragedy impacts the collective heart of its people.
Israel: The People’s Army
Israel has a people’s army, where every soldier is someone’s child, sibling, grandchild, or relative. Every reservist is someone’s father, grandfather, uncle, or loved one. The bond between Israel and its soldiers is deep because they are all connected, even if only through shared ancestry. While other nations run in times of war, we stay united. Since October 7th, thousands of volunteers from abroad have come to join the army—many times more than in any previous year of peace.
Juxtaposing The Old and The New
The Nation of Israel preserves its ancient heritage while seamlessly integrating it into the present. Sometimes, you’ll find an ancient building surrounded by new residential or commercial structures. At times, you first notice the old, then the new—the contrast between eras highlighting the rich history of the people and their land.
Despite the war: Building and Dining in Tel Aviv
The skies above Tel Aviv are filled with cranes, a testament to the city’s rapid growth and development. However, this vibrant expansion has been abruptly interrupted by the war that began on October 7th, leading to a slowdown in construction as many workers, primarily Arabs from Judea and Samaria, can no longer contribute to the building boom.
Meanwhile, the culinary scene in Israel thrives. Dining here is a celebration of flavours; dips, condiments, and accompaniments play a crucial role at meals, whether in restaurants or at home. Tables overflow with a delightful array of salty, sweet, and spicy dishes tantalizing the taste buds. Israel proudly embraces its status as the vegan capital of the world, offering a diverse and exquisite variety of plant-based delicacies that cater to every palate.
