Visiting Hutzot Hayotzer (sometimes spelled Khutsot HaYotser or Chutzot Hayotzer) is an opportunity to meet the artists of the artists' colony, see them at work, talk to them about their creative processes and purchase straight from the creators.
Between your gallery visits, rest on one of the benches that line the picturesque pathway, view the lovely fountains of Teddy Park in the garden next door or enjoy a meal at a restaurant overlooking the charming Yemin Moshe neighborhood or the walls of the Old City.
The enchanting alleyways of Hutzot Hayotzer have been home to Israeli artists for over 40 years. As you tour the compound, chances are you will encounter well-known artists whose works are exhibited in the most prestigious Israeli and foreign museums.
On display are sculptures, photographs, paintings, drawings, metalwork, embroidery, ceramics, decorative weaving and plenty of Judaica.
The buildings of Hutzot Hayotzer were constructed during the 1930s as part of the Jurat el-Anab neighborhood. In 1948 the area was abandoned as it become the boundary between the east and west sides of Jerusalem – the Jordanian and Israeli border ran straight through the neighborhood. In 1967 when Jerusalem was reunited, the compound underwent renovations and was designated as an arts district.
At Hutzot Hayotzer Artists’ Colony enjoy breathtaking views, history and a feast of Israeli art.
Details
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm Friday and holiday eves: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Website: jerusalem-art.org
Sites nearby
Hutzot Hayotzer is situated in one of the most beautiful areas of Jerusalem, adjacent to Sultan's Pool, between the walls of the Old City and the first Jewish neighborhood outside of Jerusalem, Mishkenot Ha'ananim.
Once in the area, it's highly recommended to take advantage of all it has to offer. Walk a couple of minutes and enter the Old City of Jerusalem via Zion or Jaffa gates. Visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Western Wall. Walk around the Arab Shuk in the Muslim Quarter, sit in one of the restaurants or coffee shops in the Old City.
You also should consider visiting the First Station, a very popular new leisure complex, a lovely area full of restaurants and boutique stores with activities on an ongoing basis. Or if you want to watch a movie, the Jerusalem Cinematheque is a couple minute walk away and offers screenings of foreign, Israeli and Hollywood films.
Hutzot Hayotzer Arts and Crafts Fair
One of the best events of the year in Jerusalem is Hutzot Hayotzer that takes place annually in August. It is an amazing arts and crafts fair with tons of artists selling their wares and lots of performances throughout. It is highly recommended.
And be sure to see all Jerusalem events here.
Photos courtesy of the artists of Hutzot Hayotzer
