Contributed by Info Guru Terri Wallace

Judaic art has a rich history that is firmly embedded in the Torah commandment of Hiddur Mitzvah, or sacred beautification.

From sculptures and metal work, to paintings and serigraphs, these Jewish artists create art that both beautifies and inspires.

10. Yair Emanuel

Yair Emanuel graduated from the Bezalel Academy of Art and Design. His use of vivid colors is a defining characteristic of his work, as is his juxtaposition of the ancient and modern. He has mastered the art of painting on silk and wood, as well as hand-embroidery and raw-silk appliqué. The duality of his work is reminiscent of those who can appreciate both old and new alike.

9. Shraga Landesman

Shrada Landesman has a long history of creating unique art in unusual styles and mediums. His pieces often illustrate a Jewish theme. He also blends metal and wood elements in his art, which has been described as representative of the transient and the eternal. The simple complexity of his art might especially appeal to those who appreciate the study of life.

8. David Gerstein

David Gerstein has a modern and distinctive style that evokes the fantastical work of childlike innocence. His use of color and dimension give a vivid sense of power and presence to his works. The bold impact of his work is perfect for those who embrace life with ferocity.

7. David Fisher

The stunning laser paper-cut pieces by David Fisher are inspired by ancient Hebrew manuscripts. The intricate designs are a labor of love and serve as a testament to his faith. The exquisite, lacy-like works would be equally at home in a formal parlor or a modern space with a geometric emphasis.

6. Marc Chagall

A cornerstone in Russian, French and Jewish culture, 20th century master Marc Chagall combined French, Russian and Jewish culture in his creative expression. Chagall is known for his dream-like and colorful imagery, across many media, most notably mosaic and painting.

5. Zina Roitman

Zina Roitman studied at the Art Academy of Kishenev, taking courses in classical drawing, painting and graphics. Her landscapes reflect elements of mysticism and a certain dream-like quality. Her evocative use of light and color create visual harmony in her work that compliments a feminine decorating style.

4. Mordechai Ardon

Over the course of his artistic life, the work of Mordechai Ardon has evolved from realism to figurative symbolism, and from metaphysical to surreal. Having studied at the Bauhaus under the tutelage of Klee, Kandinsky, Feininger, and Itten, and having later studied the painting techniques of the Old Masters under Max Doerner at the Munich Academy, it is no wonder that the elements of both are juxtaposed in his works. His extraordinary use of color will highlight any room.

3. Naama Nothman

Naama Nothman’s works vary in texture, color, and subject, but the grace and beauty of her art creates a sense of calm amidst a storm. Her pieces are especially appealing for spaces where the balance and harmony of the room should be reflected in the art.

2. Friedrich Adler

Adler was accomplished in creating metalwork pieces in the Art nouveau and Art deco styles. He studied under Hermann Obrist and Wilhelm von Debschitz and, afterwards, he taught art. But on July 11, 1942, he was sent to Auschwitz. Once there, he was determined to be old to work, and he was killed soon afterwards. However, his contributions to the arts lives on. His art pieces are still in demand.

1. Moshe Castel

Moshe Castel studied at the Academie Julien and the Louvre Museum. The earthy colors of his work, along with the timeless nature of his pieces, combine to evoke a primitive and visceral reaction to his art. The bold colors combined with the rich use of gold tones create a depth that demands attention and is likely to be admired by those with a strong sense of style of heritage.