Unearthed Art School Applications Reveal Stories of Jewish Refugees from the Nazis

A remarkable collection of nearly 100 art school applications from Jewish individuals fleeing the Nazis has been discovered in Jerusalem's municipal archives. These documents, dating back to the 1930s, include photographs, letters, and artwork samples, highlighting the desperate attempts of applicants to escape persecution. Only 49 candidates were accepted into the Bezalel art school, with just 27 managing to reach Jerusalem. The findings underscore the tragic fate of many applicants, with most ultimately perishing during the Holocaust. This archive not only preserves their stories but also sheds light on the broader efforts to rescue Jews during a dark chapter in history.

Key Details: • The documents were found in 2022 and date back to the 1930s. • Only 49 out of nearly 100 applicants were accepted into Bezalel. • 27 candidates successfully traveled to Jerusalem for studies. • The archive includes personal stories, highlighting the impact on families.