This unique project is the blending of two worlds, The Spiritual and The Artistic. It is inspired by Shaiya Raz whose lifelong quest is directly related to the fulfillment of The Jerusalem Prophecies, and exquisitely created by the world renowned artist Ya’akov Boussidan, who is considered a foremost authority on Jerusalem art and whose celebrated artist book “Jerusalem – Names in Praise”, was showcased at the Israel Museum and the British Parliament in London.

To be a True Lover of Jerusalem means to be blessed enough to know some of its endless divine beauty and mystery and to have at least a glimpse of its Spiritual Function – Present, Past, and Future. Its mystery is slightly revealed in the words of The Prophet Isaiah (40:2) who says quote “Speak to the Heart of Jerusalem” – for he knows that Jerusalem is a living spiritual entity.
Its present spiritual function is to Unite the people in a Prayer of Peace – a prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem, which is the key to the Peace of the world. It is described in the words of King David “Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem. May those who Love You be Prosperous” – Psalm 122:6.
Its future spiritual function is described and accurately summarized by the words “For My House shall be called the House of Prayer for all Nations” – Isaiah 56:7.

“Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem” and “For My House shall be called the House of Prayer for all Nations” are the foundational phrases of The Jerusalem Unity Art Project. We invite all True Lovers of Jerusalem to join in prayer for their fulfillment. For Jerusalem is the focal point and the bridge connecting all of those who are already righteous, as well as those who are yet to become.

Among his many awards, Boussidan received the Jesselson Prize of Judaica from the Israel Museum and an honorary prize at the Biennale in Monte Carlo. Many of Boussidan’s creations represent his love for the City of Jerusalem.

In his celebrated book Jerusalem – Names in Praise, Boussidan writes ‘When I draw… The image is a result of my partnership with time and space.’ This explanation describes his relationship with Jerusalem which transcends reason as it is in his essence. Boussidan’s acclaimed book was launched at the Israel Museum in 2006, and at the British Parliament in London in 2007 hosted by the Member of Parliament, Dame Louise Ellman. This livre d’artiste was presented to Pope Benedictus XVI, the former Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, the former President of Israel Yitzhak Navon, the former United States Ambassador to Israel, David Friedman, the former mayor of Jerusalem, Nir Barkat and most recently to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

www.yaakovboussidan.com