Judges’ reasoning:
Hillel Roman’s works are the products of a profound, even if not academic research. Roman uses existing, unconcealed, common-knowledge information for the creation of what is partially imitation, partially personal version of functional objects in the public sphere. His sculptures are more than an allegory of reality taking place outside the museum’s walls – they also exist in the in-between zone stretching between the museum and “the real world”. With the way he installs his works, Roman creates a deceptive surrounding seducing the viewer and breaking the silent hierarchy of “art consumption”. He works with diligence and meticulousness, and at the same time he plays with the creative process, continues to explore, and perhaps even leads the viewer as if he was a student in his classroom. You can not overlook the beauty and the aesthetics ingrained in his sculptures, paintings and drawing alike. Beauty that starts with the selection of the object and continues with the adherence to its visual attributes.

Courtesy of the artist and Dvir gallery, Tel-Aviv

Less Reading...