Salt Sculptures

It all started with a realisation while walking along the beach of the Dead Sea. Fascinated by the forms created by the crystal salt coverings on stones, branches and other natural and man-made objects, I decided to try and create my own imaginary forms coated with salt.

In the year 2000 I began this project by searching for the right materials to sculpt, materials that would be suitable for a salt coating, and for a method to dip them in the saline waters of the Dead Sea. As it was my main medium, I realised soon enough that I had to learn more about the Dead Sea, its salt concentration and unique ecosystem which allowed the growth of sparkling white crystals. The process involved submerging the work in the Dead Sea waters and waiting until the salt crystals grew, covering the forms with a thick crystalline coating. The Dead Sea's location and chemical composition caused us many problems. Violent storms, big waves and strong winds contributed to the loss of 25 sculptures in the first three years. The sea is a tough partner and demands its sacrifice. On a few occasions we lost all our works, including the rafts, in the floods and storms.
The Salt sculpture installation was exhibited in the visitor center of AHAVA Kibbutz Mitzpe Shalem between 2009-2019.

Assistants: Michael Rieder, Mara Gandelman, Dov Levi Newman, Kim Mutchan, Daniel Weil, Moshe Iritz