Lights of renewal: Yeruham shines bright with stunning urban art installations

New project blends light, local storytelling and sustainability, using handcrafted sculptures to support urban renewal and strengthen community life in the desert town

The desert town of Yeruham has unveiled a series of large-scale artistic light installations in its public squares, part of a new community-focused urban renewal initiative led by MK Illumination, a global leader in artistic lighting.
The project, launched in collaboration with the Yeruham Local Council and MK Illumination Israel, aims to transform the city’s public spaces through a combination of local storytelling, sustainable design and handcrafted lighting art. It is part of a broader effort to revitalize the city and boost civic pride.
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Yeruham city square prior to installation, a quiet urban space awaiting transformation
Yeruham city square prior to installation, a quiet urban space awaiting transformation
Yeruham city square prior to installation, a quiet urban space awaiting transformation
(Photo: MK Illumination)
Among the standout features are three-meter-tall illuminated flowers and oversized glowing books, each piece reflecting the unique identity of the neighborhood in which it is installed.
The installations were handcrafted in MK Illumination’s Austrian factory and adapted for Yeruham by light artists Anat and Sivan Farag.
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Yeruham city square prior to installation, a quiet urban space awaiting transformation
Yeruham city square prior to installation, a quiet urban space awaiting transformation
Yeruham city square prior to installation, a quiet urban space awaiting transformation
(Photo: MK Illumination)
“Yeruham is in the midst of an exciting urban renewal process, and it was a great honor for us to be part of it,” said Anat Farag, CEO of MK Illumination Israel. “Each installation was tailored to the character of its location. Seeing residents stop, take photos and feel moved is exactly why we do what we do.”
All installations are made from fully recyclable materials and incorporate energy-efficient technologies, aligning with principles of environmental sustainability. The goal, according to the project’s organizers, is not only to beautify the city but also to create emotionally resonant public spaces that bring communities together.
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Yeruham city square prior to installation, a quiet urban space awaiting transformation
Yeruham city square prior to installation, a quiet urban space awaiting transformation
Yeruham city square prior to installation, a quiet urban space awaiting transformation
(Photo: MK Illumination)
Adv. Nili Aharon, head of the Yeruham Local Council, described the initiative as part of a broader vision to transform Yeruham’s image and infrastructure.
“Yeruham is experiencing an unprecedented period of renewal, and this project is another key component of our vision to transform public spaces into welcoming, inspiring places that foster pride among residents,” Aharon said.
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Early construction phase of the Yeruham light installation, with foundation work underway at one of the city’s roundabouts
Early construction phase of the Yeruham light installation, with foundation work underway at one of the city’s roundabouts
Early construction phase of the Yeruham light installation, with foundation work underway at one of the city’s roundabouts
(Photo: MK Illumination)
“The collaboration with MK Illumination brought an international standard of art and light to the city, while maintaining a strong commitment to sustainability and a deep connection to the local story of each neighborhood. The new light in the city squares is not merely decorative — it is a symbol of optimism and growth for Yeruham. I invite families, children and visitors to come and enjoy this beauty, which breathes new life into our public spaces and illuminates the unique spirit of our city.”
The Yeruham project continues MK Illumination’s work in Israel, which includes high-profile lighting displays in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Eilat and Netanya. These include the LUMAGICA light festival in Tel Aviv, a romantic “Path of Love” promenade in Eilat and the annual Jerusalem Light Sculpture Festival, which draws over 150,000 visitors.
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Structural frame of a large-scale light sculpture begins to take shape, part of Yeruham’s urban renewal and public art initiative
Structural frame of a large-scale light sculpture begins to take shape, part of Yeruham’s urban renewal and public art initiative
Structural frame of a large-scale light sculpture begins to take shape, part of Yeruham’s urban renewal and public art initiative
(Photo: MK Illumination)
MK Illumination, which operates in more than 120 countries, is known for its custom-designed D3 light sculptures and for its commitment to creating sustainable and visually impactful urban experiences. The company installs around 6,000 lighting projects globally each year.
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