The History of the Star of David, by artist Marc Bennett, is a work of art that examines the long and complex history of the Star of David through 18 different transformations that have occurred in it over the centuries.
The stainless steel installation, which is approximately five meters high and seven meters wide, depicts the three pillars of Jewish heritage: education, tolerance, and giving.
The installation makes it possible to witness the ups and downs of the journey of the Jewish people throughout history. It is accompanied by a scannable QR code that reveals the story of the Star of David in three different languages.
The work was donated to the healing garden at the Legacy Heritage Oncology Center by members of the American Friends of Soroka Medical Center.
The moving unveiling ceremony of The History of the Star of David took place at Soroka and was attended by executives and members of American Friends of Soroka Medical Center and Friends of Soroka in Israel, members of the hospital's management, Soroka employees, patients of the Legacy Heritage Center for Oncology, and many other honored guests.
Marc Bennett is an artist and filmmaker who grew up in Brooklyn, New York, and currently lives in Aspen, Colorado. His works are included in many private and public collections and exhibited throughout the United States and Israel. He has received many accolades, including:
• The Stamford Art Association's "Color Award"
• The World Medal at the New York Festival's Television Advertising Awards
• The Best Shorts Competition's "Outstanding Achievement Humanitarian Award." This award honors filmmakers who are raising awareness of important issues and are committed to changing the world through their films.
Caroline Franklin Freidfertig, president, American Friends of Soroka Medical Center: "This unique project was created out of a passion and vision for the development of the Negev and its personal and public spaces. The families of Soroka's patients, staff members, and visitors to the hospital draw strength from this work of art."
Rachel Heisler Sheinfeld, executive director, American Friends of Soroka Medical Center: "The installation shines with a light of hope for the patients of the Legacy Heritage Oncology Center and supports the mission of saving human lives through the healing power of art. The colorful rainbow that traces the long journey of the most recognized star in the world, the Star of David, provides inspiration and knowledge about the historical development of the symbol over the years. We are glad to have the privilege of being partners and donating to Soroka Medical Center."
Prof. Itzhak Avital, director of the Legacy Heritage Center for Oncology in Soroka: "I thank the members of American Friends of Soroka Medical Center for donating this masterpiece to our healing garden. Patients' surroundings and treatment experience play a significant role in the healing process, and the healing garden at the oncology center allows the patient to relax, take a break from the treatment routine, and be inspired by hope. The special work that was placed in the garden represents the survival of the Star of David over the years, which may also strengthen our patients in their daily coping."
Dr. Shlomi Codish, director general of Soroka University Medical Center: "The members of American Friends of Soroka Medical Center have a deep and long-standing partnership with the hospital. They work diligently to promote and develop Soroka. This wonderful work of art demonstrates their strong commitment to Soroka and their commitment to the physical and mental healing of the residents of the Negev, and I thank them for that."
