Billionaire Businessman Israel Makov Shares Passion for Israeli Art Collection

Prominent businessman and philanthropist Israel Makov, 87, has revealed the extent of his extensive art collection, comprising approximately 400 works of Israeli art, housed in his Ramat Gan offices. Makov, formerly the CEO of Teva Pharmaceuticals and founder of Interpharm, described his collection not as a financial investment but as a reflection of pieces that personally move him, stating, "I don't understand much about art. I just fall in love." He has never sold a single piece.

The collection is eclectic, featuring works by classic Israeli artists like Ludwig Blum and abstract pieces by Arie Aroch, Yosef Zaritsky, Ezekiel Streichman, Lea Nickel, and Moshe Kupferman, alongside prominent contemporary artists such as Zoya Cherkassky, Tsibi Geva, Chen Sisso, and Nirit Takele.

Makov's journey into art collecting began with his late wife, Nira, who passed away in 2006. Their early purchases date back to the 1960s, and after her retirement, she opened an art gallery in their home. Following her death, Makov continued to engage with the art world, eventually leading to the curation of his collection by Shulamit Nus, who previously managed Discount Bank's art collection.

While Makov admits he is not an art expert and relies on consultation, his choices are driven by personal connection. He focuses on Israeli artists, visiting their studios and supporting those he feels deserve recognition. The collection includes works from the "New Barbizon" movement and conceptual artist Micha Ullman, whose pieces on intelligence and technology resonated with Makov due to his work in neuroscience.

A significant portion of the collection is featured in the recently published book "Mirror Place," edited by curator Irit Hader. Guided tours of the collection are also available at Makov's BioLight company offices in Ramat Gan. Beyond collecting, Makov actively supports the arts through the Gesher Theater, various artists, museums, and by awarding the Nira Makov Prize at the Ashdod Museum of Art and a prize at the "Fresh Paint" art fair, aimed at supporting young artists.