Israel Museum in Jerusalem Reopens in July 2010 After Major Renovation

In July 2010, the Israel Museum in Jerusalem welcomed visitors once again following a renovation and expansion that commenced in June 2007. This project introduced 8,600 square meters of new construction and 21,500 square meters of gallery space, bringing the total to 54,000 square meters, with an investment of $100 million. Among the highlights are a new entrance pavilion designed by James Carpenter Associates and revamped galleries by Efrat-Kowalsky. The renovation was led by chief curator Suzanne Landau, who also curated the inaugural exhibitions. The museum's contemporary art collection, bolstered by a $14 million endowment, features pieces by Damien Hirst and Olafur Eliasson, alongside newly commissioned works by Anish Kapoor and Eliasson, promoting Israeli art within the galleries.