A Brush with Faith: The Art of Ofer Yom Tov

Ofer Yom Tov, an artist and creator, was born 41 years ago in the heart of Tel Aviv. His father was also a painter. After being seriously injured during his military service, his father discovered a hidden talent for art that may have been passed down through the generations.

How did your father discover his artistic gift while dealing with such pain?

During rehabilitation for a severe injury to his lower limbs, his therapists suggested art as part of his therapy. Surprisingly, within a short time, he was not only creating but also exhibiting and selling his paintings.

What kind of art did your father create?

His style was mostly realistic, landscapes, portraits, scenes from life. In his later years, he visited his birthplace in Bulgaria often, where he enjoyed painting its peaceful, natural scenery.

Did your father encourage you to pursue art too?

Not really. My connection to painting came from within me, from a very young age. Even as a child, I felt a deep love for art, but we didn’t have the resources for art lessons or special classes, so I didn’t develop it back then.

So when did your passion for painting really begin?

Only after finishing my army service. About two weeks after being released from the IDF, I was searching for work. In the free time between interviews, I started doodling just for fun and I haven’t stopped since.

Did you study art formally? Is your painting style something you were taught?

Not exactly. I began by studying graphic design but quickly realized that digital art wasn’t for me. I shifted toward traditional painting, especially oil on canvas. I taught myself a personal painting technique, one that most artists don’t use.

When did you become religiously observant?

About 12 years ago.

Did becoming observant affect your art?

Absolutely. Before becoming religious, most of my paintings focused on environmental issues and wildlife conservation. But once I started growing spiritually, my artwork began to change. I started including Jewish themes, symbols, verses from the Torah and other sacred texts. My art became an expression of my inner world and my journey.

Your paintings often include deep spiritual messages. Where do those ideas come from?

When you live a life of holiness, your eyes open to the deeper meaning behind things. Through Torah study and keeping mitzvot, I began seeing the spiritual essence of the world. Hashem gave me the gift to bring that vision to life through color and canvas.

Is there one painting you feel especially connected to?

Yes, I feel connected to all my work, but one in particular stands out: A Very Narrow Bridge. It captures the soul’s struggle between its yearning for spiritual growth and the distractions of the material world. One person who viewed it reminded me of the full quote from Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, “The whole world is a very narrow bridge but the main thing is not to be afraid at all.” That message sits at the heart of the painting.