Underwater photography
As a part of the Israeli passion with the marine world, the country yielded several renowned underwater photographers, whose accomplishment received much international recognition.
Itamar Grinberg, is one of the leading Israeli underwater photographers who explored the photographic properties of Israel’s four seas. His work was published in numerous international magazines, and his documentaries appeared in several major TV stations including BBC, CNN and PBS. Grinbergs’ work was also published in more than 10 books dealing with various aspects of life in Israel. Specializing in underwater video photography, Ziggy Livnat has worked as a professional photographer, conservationist, and educator. His passion for coral reef preservation let him to work with leading institutes and entities such as NOAA, the American Museum of Natural History, and Hawaii Tourism Authority, as well as with renowned TV stations including National Geographic. Gil Arbel is an award winning wildlife filmmaker who specializes in underwater photography. Gil is the only Israeli cameraman who participated in the acclaimed BBC series "Planet Earth". He also leads wildlife expeditions around the world.
The enthusiasm to capture the wonders of our seas and bring these underwater treasures to the wide public attracts every year, many underwater photographers from around the globe to Eilat, for what has become one of the world’s leading contests in underwater photography.
The Spirit of Our Seas
Each of Israel’s four seas constrains its unique spiritual and medical qualities used by pilgrims visiting the holy land since ancient times. Many believe that our four seas, mentioned already in the old testimony posses healing forces which can be utilized but not always understood. Israeli artist and healer, Alon Yehuda, combined waters from the Red Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee, along with glass art for creating unique jewelries and art. These “drops of love” from the Israeli seas resonate with the water composing 70% of our body, and said to provide the power of the fours seas to the one holding them.