Ya’acov Agam, an influential Israeli artist recognized as a founding figure of the kinetic art movement, passed away on Sunday at the age of 98. Agam’s innovative approach, which integrated color, motion, light, and active viewer participation, established a distinctive visual style that resonated widely across cultural and generational boundaries.

Born Ya’acov Gibshtein on May 11, 1928, in Rishon LeZion, Agam developed artworks that altered in appearance depending on the viewer’s angle and movement. This dynamic quality invited audiences to engage directly with the pieces, fostering an interactive experience that challenged traditional notions of static visual art. His work stands as a key contribution to kinetic and Op Art, a genre known for its utilization of shapes, patterns, and optical illusions to evoke a sense of movement and transformation.

In 2026, Agam was awarded the Israel Prize for Visual Arts in the categories of Painting, Sculpture, and Photography, the country’s most prestigious cultural accolade. The prize committee lauded his extensive influence on both Israeli and international art scenes, highlighting his role in pushing the boundaries of conventional visual expression and pioneering new artistic languages that have left a lasting impact.

Among Agam’s notable contributions to Israeli public art was the installation known as Fire and Water, reflecting his signature use of dynamic visual elements. His legacy encompasses a broad body of work that continues to inspire and provoke discussion within the art community and beyond.

Agam’s funeral is scheduled for Monday at 5 p.m. at the Rehovot Cemetery. Prior to the service, his body will lie in state at the Agam Museum in Rishon LeZion from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., allowing the public to pay their respects.