Current Exhibit

Hamsa | خمسة | ח׳מסה
Curator: Dr. Ido Lahav Noy
Advisor: Dr. Shirat Miriam Shamir

Hannan Abu-Hussein I Linda Lieff Altabef I Andi LaVine Arnovitz I Sarah Benninga I Zenab Garbia I Rinat Gilboa I Nechama (Ken) Goldman I Lenor Mizrahi-Cohen I Yifat Naim I HIli Noy
This exhibition explores the iconic motif of the open hand with five outstretched fingers, a widely prevalent symbol across visual, folk, and popular culture. Titled Hamsa | خمسة | ח׳מסה, it showcases the Hamsa in 555 different representations, a number with significant typological meaning.

The motif of the human handprint dates back to the very beginnings of human civilization, as evidenced by cave paintings discovered across the globe. The folk tradition of using the hand to create imprints and seals has persisted through modern times. We all share this practice regardless of where we are from—Jerusalem or Nazareth, Sydney or Kuala Lumpur, Johannesburg or Cairo, Beijing or Moscow, Buenos Aires or New York.

Across numerous cultures, especially Jewish and Muslim traditions, the open palm with its five fingers has gained profound significance as a source of healing, good health, and fertility. Viewed as an emblem of protection, fortune, and divine powers, it is frequently employed as an amulet or talisman to deflect negative energies and attract blessings and luck for the bearer. Whether adorned as jewelry, displayed within homes, carried during travels, or incorporated into life cycle rituals and rites of passage, the open hand motif is a powerful reminder of hope, resilience, and the enduring belief that positive forces can overcome adversity.

Hamsa | خمسة | ח׳מסה showcases works by ten artists from Israel and the United States alongside a rich collection of folk and popular objects acquired from markets in Jerusalem’s Old City. These items highlight the motif’s enduring influence and significance across multiple realms, reflecting local traditions and cross-cultural exchange.

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This exhibit was made possible thanks to special support from the Consulate General of Israel in New York. Gallery exhibits and programs are made possible with the generous support of the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund. Additional support is provided by the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and the generosity of individual donors.