Known for its burgeoning underground art scene, the lower section of Haifa now has one more show space to add to its list of dynamic boutique galleries and institutions. Reborn and with renewed purpose, the Pyramid public art space and gallery is having its grand re-opening event later this month on December 21st. The gallery is the stomping grounds for many local Israeli artists, including the famed, Broken Fingaz Crew, who have decorated many of the abandoned historical stone buildings of the neighborhood with their erotically inclined street art, and who most recently lent their drawings to the new music video for U2’s comeback anthem, American Soul.
No stranger to controversy, the Pyramid has seen its share of ups and downs. Originally established in 1992, in the abandoned Wadi Salib neighborhood, its years of actively housing and supporting the ideas and works of such modern Israeli artists as Menashe Kadishman and Moshe Gershun has been previously tarnished by the reality of its existence in the struggling and broken-down area, coupled with a small work space.
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But this tragically defunct neighborhood is now just another place in the city that is on the up and up. More than 25 years later, its planned revitalization is a part of the city funded renovation that has proven successful in other areas of Haifa, most visibly, in the previously similarly destitute Downtown, which now stands as a main attraction in the city, coveted for its cool bar and restaurant scene.
The new Pyramid is a much larger space with more potential than ever. The non-profit contemporary art and cultural center, now boasts two galleries, ready to host local and international art exhibitions, workshops, and performances. It is a shared workspace for new and veteran artists of varied styles, mediums, and backgrounds. The building itself, originally an abandoned school, has endured a 5 year long renovation process, and it's cause for celebration.
The opening exhibition, curated by Israeli artist and philosopher, Aim Deuelle Luski, will honor the original artists of the gallery who have been involved since the bitter beginning. It is titled, “A Tribute“, and will feature the artwork of 5 founding artists: Israel Wertman, Yehuda Yatziv, Jacob Dorchin, Avraham Eilat, and the late Morel Derfler.
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“Creating a dialogue between the older more traditional artists, and young more experimental artists-- this is the idea of the new Pyramid. The new and the old together,” says Aim.
The epic opening will be set to the background of live music shows, sponsored by Haifa art and music producing cooperative, Ghostown Crew-another major player that came up through the gallery. The event will include performances by local musical artists Shuz, KerenDun, and DJ Sapir Bar, and promises to create an inviting young and vibrant backdrop.
The re-opening event will take place in Pyramid Gallery (26 Kibbutz Galuyot Street) on Thursday, December 21, at 8 PM.