The artwork, which underwent significant restoration, is located at the corner of Yehuda Hayamit and Dolphin Streets. It has become an artistic and cultural landmark in the heart of Jaffa.
A Creative Renewal in the Heart of Jaffa
The Princess Saved by a Prince Through Her Beauty
The event was attended by mosaic artist Rinat Luk Elhayek, the singer Netta Barzilai, and Michael Wolle, Deputy CEO of the Jaffa Development Authority and Community Director. The mosaic, made entirely from 100,000 beer bottle caps, was inspired by the mythological story of Andromeda:
According to the Greek myth, Andromeda, a beautiful princess, became a victim of her parents’ boasting about her beauty, which angered the sea god who claimed his daughters were more beautiful. He threatened to drown Jaffa with massive waves. In a desperate attempt to appease him, the residents of Jaffa decided to sacrifice Andromeda. However, her exceptional beauty attracted a prince who came to her rescue.
The artist explained that the mosaic symbolizes multiculturalism, creativity, and the triumph of free spirit over rigid norms.
Dedicated to the Memory of Shani Luk, a Nova Festival Victim
In recent days, the mosaic was meticulously restored using a unique manual technique by Luk Elhayek, who sought to restore its original luster. The event took on a deeply personal and emotional note, as the artist is the aunt of Shani Luk z”l, who was tragically murdered at the Nova music festival.
The restored mosaic joins a collection of public artworks across Tel Aviv-Jaffa, connecting past, present, and future. It has become an additional attraction for both residents and visitors. Netta Barzilai, the inspiration for the piece, expressed her gratitude during the event, saying she felt honored by the tribute and the uniqueness of commemorating such a meaningful moment.
Watch Netta’s winning Eurovision performance:
