90 Years of Vision, Keren Hayesod Posters, 1920 – 2010

Ramps, Ben Gurion International Airport, Tel Aviv 2011

© Leslie Hossack

Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv is the gateway to Israel for most visitors. Designed by Moshe Safdie, the airport features scissor-shaped ramps shown in this photograph. On the left, arriving passengers head down to the baggage hall, while on the right, departing passengers head down toward the shops and flight gates.

Along the wall on the right can be seen an art exhibition: 90 Years of Vision, Keren Hayesod Posters, 1920 – 2010, curated by David Tartakover. This colourful collection of over 30 vintage posters provides a fascinating glimpse into Israel’s history.

Since 1920, Keren Hayesod (the United Israel Appeal, Foundation Fund) has been active in Israel’s growth. It was founded in London as the fundraising arm of the Zionist movement, and in 1926 the headquarters was moved to Jerusalem.

Until the establishment of the State of Israel, Keren Hayesod financed activities relating to immigration and absorption, settlement, defense, development of water resources and public works. It also aided major enterprises such as the Palestine Electric Company and the Palestine Potash Company at the Dead Sea. When Israel gained its independence in 1948, many functions handled by Keren Hayesod were transferred to the Jewish Agency, and Keren Hayesod continued to concentrate on financing immigration, absorption and settlement.

Beginning tomorrow, Haute Vitrine will showcase the Keren Hayesod posters displayed at Ben Gurion Airport.