El Rujm

Shahar Marcus’s new video work El-Rujm was inspired and shot at an archaeological site – Rujm el-Hiri that consists of large stone monuments, placed in the middle of a field in the Golan Heights. The purpose of the monument, as well as the identity of those who built it are still unknown. Archaeologists presume that this site served as a religious centre where various rituals took place. Furthermore, it strongly resembles ‘crop circles’, consequently bringing to mind an alien intervention. The work itself is shot partly from above, and infused with an ominous soundtrack that enhances its cinematic effect and creates a sense of tension. The tension is preserved throughout the work, which remains enigmatic until the end. The viewers are left with open questions that are left unanswered. Marcus himself, dressed as a simple farmer also embodies the role of a healer – a shaman – a mediator of knowledge that was passed by different cultures throughout history. And so, the work combines reality with fiction, touching upon themes of sustainability, ecology, archaeology, history and science fiction, while remaining an unsolved mystery, just like the actual site itself.

Shahar Marcus (IL)
Shahar Marcus (b. 1971) is an Israeli-based artist who primarily works in the medium of performance and video art. His most recent works deal with local political issues, by approaching iconic Israeli landmarks with a critical and humorous point of view. Thus, Marcus reflects on his own heritage, environment, and the creation of local historical narratives. His works are influenced by the visual language of cinematography along with familiar themes and tributes to art – history