Jewish culture spans several centuries – while remaining faithful to tradition, it continues to evolve: it draws from what other cultures offer, but also shapes trends itself.
Craftsmanship plays a huge role in this process – the work of local artists is not aimed at the mass market, but created for each of us individually, so that we can build a beautiful and joyful world around us.
Craftsmanship is extremely popular in Israel. Artists create their works, thereby developing Jewish culture and allowing it to remain close to the people.
Jewelry, ceramics, graphic art, painting, photography, design, clothing, cosmetics – this is how Jewish culture is present in our everyday world.
ESEK – Supporting Israeli Small Businesses
Sharing the Soul and Spirit of Israel with the World
ESEK is a social enterprise dedicated to bringing the rich tapestry of Israeli culture to life through its vibrant community of small businesses. Every product curated by ESEK carries with it a story of resilience, creativity, and heritage. Join us at the Krakow Jewish Culture Festival to experience these stories firsthand—through the products, the people, and the enduring spirit of Israel’s entrepreneurs.
In the High Synagogue – in the main prayer hall on the first floor – you will be able to see an exhibition of contemporary Israeli handicrafts. On Wednesday and Thursday, you can also take part in workshops where you’ll create your own keychains using leather recycled from Italian fashion houses.
If you want to learn more about Israeli craftsmanship and the ESEK organization, we invite you to the JCF Tent for a meeting with Andrew Keene, the founder of ESEK
Crafting Resilience: How Israeli Small Businesses Bring Jewish Culture to Life
Presented by Andrew Keene, Founder of ESEK
Discover how the stories of Israel’s small businesses are modern expressions of Jewish values, history, and resilience. This session will feature a short documentary highlighting inspiring entrepreneurs from across Israel, followed by a live talk with ESEK founder Andrew Keene. Explore how age-old Jewish traditions—hospitality, craftsmanship, community, and innovation—are alive today in the workshops, studios, and marketplaces of modern Israel.
Wednesday, June 25th, 18.00
Festival Tent, ul. Józefa 36
EN / PL
free admission
Pop-Up Shop & Showcase: Experience Israeli Culture Through Small Businesses
Step into the world of Israeli creativity and craftsmanship. ESEK’s pop-up shop invites you to explore a curated collection of products that reflect the diverse cultural mosaic of Israel—from handmade Judaica and artisanal jewelry to culinary delights and contemporary design. Every item has a story, and every purchase supports the livelihoods of small business owners across Israel.
June 25 – 29, 10.00 – 18.00
Synagoga Wysoka, 1st floor, ul. Józefa 36
free admission
Hands-On Workshop: Create Your Own Genuine Leather Keychain
Presented by ESEK featuring Hillel Mor of Mor Sinai, Jaffa, Israel
Join master artisan Hillel Mor for an interactive workshop where tradition meets creativity. Using upcycled premium Italian leather, participants will craft their own personalized keychain, complete with custom engraving. Choose from Hebrew names, meaningful Jewish symbols, and more to create a keepsake that is both beautiful and deeply personal.
About Mor Sinai:
Founded by childhood friends Nadav Sinai and Hillel Mor, Mor Sinai is a testament to resilience and craftsmanship. With roots in Israel’s northern landscapes and backgrounds in elite military service, Nadav and Hillel returned to their creative passions after years in high-tech and military service. Today, they handcraft luxury leather goods in their Jaffa studio, blending heritage techniques with modern design. Every piece tells a story of mastery, resilience, and the enduring beauty of handmade artistry.
Wednesday, June 25th and Thursday, June 26th, 10.00 – 18.00
Synagoga Wysoka, 1stfloor, ul. Józefa 36
fee: 60 PLN (to be paid on the spot)
