Mumbai born artist Anish Kapoor has been awarded the Genesis Prize 2017 by Israel. The prize, instituted in 2012, and dubbed the Jewish Nobel, is given to individuals who have attained excellence and international renown in their chosen professional fields, and who inspire others through their engagement and dedication to the Jewish community and/or the state of Israel.
(File) Anish Kapoor
Kapoor was born to a Hindu father who served in the Indian Navy and a Baghdadi mother of Jewish descent.
Kapoor's works include the 'Bean' in Chicago and a sculpture at the Israel museum in Jerusalem called 'Turning the World Upside Down'.
“The decision to award a Jewish, UK-based artist of Indian origin demonstrates recognition of Kapoor as one of the most influential and innovative artists of his generation. Kapoor’s art is a shining example of international and intercultural dialoge through art,” said a statement from the Israel embassy in India.
“I congratulate Mr. Kapoor for winning the prestigious Genesis Prize of 2017. Kapoor’s contribution to the world - both artistic and humanitarian – is deservedly celebrated,'' said Israeli ambassador Daniel Carmon.
Kapoor's award coincides with the silver jubilee of India-Israel diplomatic relations. Carmon added that, “The Jewish community in India never experienced anti-Semitism nor persecution; instead it has served as a bridge between our people since antiquity and into modern times.”
Apart from his art, Kapoor his also known for his committment to social causes and he will reportedly use the $1 million award “to help alleviate the refugee crisis and try to expand the Jewish community’s engagement in a global effort to support refugees.”