Yaacov Agam (b. 1928) is one of the most internationally acclaimed Israeli artists, a pioneer of kinetic and optical art whose work redefined the relationship between viewer, artwork, and time. Deeply rooted in both Jewish mysticism and avant-garde experimentation, Agam’s work invites participation, challenges perception, and seeks to express dimensions that cannot be captured in static form.

In these rare works—designs for the 1983 Israeli Independence Day competition—Agam channels his lifelong artistic mission into a national symbol. These works merge geometric abstraction with layers of spiritual and cultural significance. The vibrant color fields and structured motion speak to Israel’s complexity: a young state shaped by history, driven by ideals, and always in flux.

Since the founding of the State of Israel, the Ministry of Education has held an annual design competition to create the official poster commemorating Israel’s Independence Day. This tradition has brought together the country’s most prominent artists to visually express the spirit of the nation. The winning design becomes iconic, widely distributed, and symbolically resonant, reflecting not only a moment in time but the evolving identity of the state itself.

Gouache, acrylic, and collage on cardboard. Each work (70 x 50 cm) is signed and was part of the personal collection of Israeli cultural icon Yehoram Gaon, bearing a handwritten dedication from Agam.