Ben-Gurion, Slippers & Pigeons:
A New Statue Unveiled in Tel Aviv Old North
Take a stroll down Tel Aviv Old North on the iconic Ben-Gurion Boulevard, famed for its leafy promenade and historic architecture, and you’ll now encounter a new sight: a life-sized bronze sculpture of David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s first Prime Minister, and his wife Paula. But forget grandiose poses and heroic gestures – this statue captures them in a disarmingly ordinary moment.
Beyond the bustling streets and vibrant energy of Tel Aviv’s iconic Ben-Gurion Boulevard lies a new sight: a life-sized bronze sculpture capturing a heartwarming glimpse into the lives of Israel’s first Prime Minister, David Ben-Gurion, and his wife Paula. But forget grand poses and heroic gestures. This statue, crafted by artist Shira Zelwer, transcends expectations by portraying them in a disarmingly ordinary moment.
Forget what you know about statues of national heroes. Picture Ben-Gurion, hands in pockets, casually gazing ahead, while Paula, slippers peeking out, stands next to him, looking towards their former home across the street. A scattering of bronze pigeons completes the scene, evoking the everyday bustle of the city.
Why the slippers and pigeons? Artist Shira Zelwer didn’t want the usual, monumental portrayal. Instead, she aimed to reveal the human side of this iconic couple. Imagine them as any Tel Aviv resident enjoying a moment outside, perhaps discussing the day’s news or simply taking in the city air.
This unique perspective adds a fascinating layer to exploring Tel Aviv, particularly the “Old North” neighborhood where Ben-Gurion Boulevard lies. While this area is known for its charming historic buildings and vibrant real estate scene, the statue reminds us that history wasn’t made solely in grand spaces, but also in everyday moments like these.
The statue serves as a reminder that even figures of great historical significance were, in their private lives, simply ordinary people navigating daily moments. It’s a poignant counterpoint to the grand narratives of history, reminding us that greatness often resides in the quiet moments of connection and shared humanity.
Moreover, the Ben-Gurion statue adds another layer to the rich tapestry of Tel Aviv’s Old North neighborhood. This area, known for its charming historic buildings and vibrant real estate scene, now also offers a window into the personal history of one of Israel’s most iconic figures. So, take a stroll down Ben-Gurion Boulevard, discover this captivating sculpture, and perhaps, you’ll be inspired to see both the history and the humanity that resides at the heart of this dynamic city.
Zelwer, a rising star in the Israeli art scene, deliberately chose to forgo the monumental approach often associated with statues of national figures. Instead, she sought to reveal the human side of the Ben-Gurions. Imagine them as any Tel Aviv couple enjoying a walk, perhaps discussing the day’s news or simply taking in the city air. This relatable portrayal invites us to see Ben-Gurion not just as a statesman, but as a husband, a neighbour, and a fellow resident of Tel Aviv.
The statue serves as a reminder that even figures of great historical significance were, in their private lives, simply ordinary people navigating daily moments. It’s a poignant counterpoint to the grand narratives of history, reminding us that greatness often resides in the quiet moments of connection and shared humanity.
Intrigued? Want to see it for yourself? Ben-Gurion Boulevard is a must-visit on any Tel Aviv trip, offering a beautiful green escape within the bustling city. And now, thanks to this new sculpture, you can experience a slice of Israeli history in a refreshingly relatable way.
