the artists aspired to the creation of modern art under European influence and to create "an original style, rooted in our reality." In these exhibitions, although they did not establish a clear artistic platform, there was a tendency to emphasize the painterly means. In addition, these exhibitions symbolized a certain separation and a "positive appearance" of the artists against the background of the "generalism" regime ... which helps blur the boundaries and dimensions, in order to impose mediocrity " In 1948,Yosef Zaritsky served as chairman of the association, and when an invitation came to present an exhibition of Israeli artists in the Italian pavilion at the Venice Biennale, he chose not to share the list of participating artists because of his concern about the selection of medium-sized artists. In the wake of the accusations, several artists, including Moshe Castel, Streichman and Yohanan Simon, announced their immediate retirement from the association, and they established with Zaritsky the "Ofakim Hadashim". From 1964 to 1967, Ruth Horam served as the chairperson of the Association From 1969 to 1981, Alexander Bogen served as chairman of the Association. In the years 1989–2005, Rachel Shavit-Bentwich served as chairperson of the Association and as Chairperson of the Honorary Council. Members (partial list) Alima Orna Lutski, since 1996 Zvi Yehuda Aldouby Ora Lahav Chaaltiel Abraham Hasak, since 1959 Moshe Kassirer, since 2008 Fain Maureen, since 1990 Gad Ullman (see Hebrew Gad Ullman) Arie Wachenhauser, since 1962 Igor Zeiger See also Visual arts in Israel References External links Israel Arts Directory Israeli sculptors Israeli painters Jewish Israeli artists Arts in Israel Organizations based in Israel 1934 establishments in Mandatory Palestine Arts organizations established in 1934