REINCARNATION

Concept and creation: Soof Nikritin & Natalie Afriat

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October 7, 2023 became a turning point for us as Israelis, Jews, women, and artists. The events of that day and the war that followed deeply affected our lives and became the starting point for Reincarnation.

In November 2023, we were invited to a residency in Düsseldorf. Away from home but deeply affected by the war, we found ourselves overwhelmed by fear and uncertainty, and unable to create. Slowly, a series of still images began to emerge, reflecting the stories of women whose freedom, dignity, and lives had been taken. Alongside grief, we carried a strong awareness of our own safety and bodily freedom.

The project grew into an exploration of the female body, its vulnerability and resilience, and the ways trauma can be carried through the body. Inspired by trauma research, including Yochai Ataria’s writing on collective trauma, we used long exposure photography to capture blurred movement and emotional states. These images became the foundation for a video art combining movement, sound, and visual art.

The work brings together three connected themes: the body as a vessel for the soul, inherited female rituals such as hair braiding, and artistic lineage in dance. It includes a tribute to Gertrud Kraus, one of the founder of Ein Hod, whose legacy influence our work.

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Reincarnation was presented at the Art Gallery Ein Hod as part of Ruach Kluah (Braided Spirit), curated by Zeela Kotler Hadari and Almog Gaz, from January to April 2026.