Yaacov Agam Israeli, b. 1928
Born Yaacov Gibstein in Mandate Palestine, later known as Agam, he hailed from a lineage steeped in rabbinical and kabbalistic traditions, with his father Yehoshua Gibstein serving as a rabbi. Agam's artistic journey began at the Bezalel Academy of Art and Design in Jerusalem before he ventured to Zurich, Switzerland, where he studied under Johannes Itten, finding inspiration in the works of Max Bill.
Relocating to Paris in 1951, Agam's avant-garde creations swiftly gained recognition, showcased in prestigious exhibitions like Galerie Craven and Salon des Réalités Nouvelles. Renowned for his abstract kinetic art, Agam's pieces, such as Double Metamorphosis III and the iconic fountain at La Défense district, integrate movement, light, and sound, enriching public spaces worldwide.
His innovative "Agamograph" prints, exemplified by "Complex Vision," exemplify his mastery of visual perception. Agam's influence extends beyond exhibitions; he earned the Jan Amos Comenius Medal for his educational contributions. Notably, he designed the Eurovision trophy and crafted monumental installations like Peaceful Communication with the World in Taiwan.
Agam's artistic prowess is underscored by record-breaking auctions, with his works holding a place of pride in esteemed museums worldwide. In 2018, the Yaacov Agam Museum of Art opened, a testament to his enduring legacy in pioneering dynamic art forms.
