Top 10 B’nai Mitzvah Gifts that Also Support Israel
By Drew Isserlis Kramer
When cash feels cold, many b’nai mitzvah guests choose gifts with meaning. Often this begins the tween’s collection of Judaica, a term given to the objects used in Jewish culture or religious practice. Often the mezuzah or Jewish star necklace sits in its box for decades, forgotten by a child who is still too young to perceive its significance. Today, in the wake of the Hamas terror attack in Israel, Jewish people young and old seek these objects with renewed vigor as a way to feel connected to Judaism and boost the Israeli economy. To help American Jews discover and support the Israeli craft community, new online groups emerged, like the Facebook Group aptly titled “Israeli Shops to Purchase From,” which curate the country’s best vendors in Judaica, crafts, jewelry, home decor and art. If you seek a special gift that connects the child with the Jewish homeland, below are 10 artisans with an exciting, youthful aesthetic. This is not your grandmother’s Judaica.
Hand-Embroidered Denim Jackets by Katya: Hailing from central Israel, this tattoo artist and textile designer’s unique vintage denim jackets are full of spiritual meaning and whimsical beauty. Her original, hand-stitched designs will bring funky, fun vibes to a child who understands personal style.
TDGalleryStudio: Set on gifting the b’nai mitzvah child’s first mezuzah? Select one that connects home with the homeland. These beauties hail from the olive trees of Israel. This Jewish Painter and mixed media resin artist designs modern mezuzahs that juxtapose natural wood with glossy epoxy resin to create a layered effect that feels organic and sacred.
Custom Pop Art By Taryn Treisman: Israeli graffiti artist Taryn Treisman creates custom art that reflects the cultural icons of our generation together with the ancient texts of our faith. Her Instagram portfolio showcases large scale canvases and wall murals that feature tender family moments amid the passion points that inspire individuality.
Resin Objects by Nicole Friedman: Painter and resin artist, Nicole Friedman creates beautiful objects that play with swirls of color. Her trays and boxes adorned with a b’nai mitzvah’s Hebrew name provide a special place to store jewelry and other keepsakes.
Muscat Jewelry: In 2015, Moshe Gross and Vitali Varol introduced their unique brand of spiritual jewelry to the world. From protective evil-eye bracelets to classic symbols of Jewish joy, the delicate designs bring ethereal beauty to the wearer.
Talush Home: Israeli artist Tal Deckers sprinkles joy into home spaces with her three dimensional wall hangings that elevate beloved treats to fine art. Remind the b’nai mitzvah child to enjoy the sweetness in life with a piece of art that encourages playful indulgence.
Laura Cowan Modern Judaica: Judaica artist Laura Cowan brings function and fun to the Hanukkah menorah. In an assortment of colors, the playful deconstructed design makes this a useful tabletop object for the entire calendar year.
Auri Jewelry: Designed by artist Or Kalev, Auri Jewelry’s minimalist aesthetic feels clean and cool for children across the gender spectrum. Her new line of Jewish star necklaces is thoughtfully executed to celebrate Jewish identity both overtly and privately, depending on the wearer’s circumstances. Her creative use of movement in her designs make each piece playful and personal to the wearer.
@kicks_by_ray: Not Israeli-based, but Israeli-supporting, this Long Island, New York sneaker artist is currently offering 50% off his cool kicks to support Israel in its fight against terrorism. Custom designed to reflect any interest, the sneaker is an open canvas to celebrate Jewish identity.
Leather Goods by Hilel Mor: Artist and currently serving IDF soldier Hilel Mor’s line of handmade leather goods is created as a testament to Israel’s resilience and unity. Out of the ugliness of war, Mor’s intention is to spread positivity through art. From leather bags to leather bound journals, his hand etched pieces are custom made to order. Connect through Instagram with your ideas for imagery and language to co-create a truly unique piece that will inspire appreciation for Israel and the young people defending its right to exist.
