Itzchak Tarkay

Elegant figurative paintings with Impressionist influence and timeless sophistication

About the Artist

Itzchak Tarkay was a major Israeli figurative artist celebrated for elegant female figures, sophisticated interiors, and a painterly approach shaped by Impressionist and Post-Impressionist influence. Born in 1935, he survived the Holocaust, later settled in Israel, studied formally, and went on to become one of the most recognizable names in contemporary figurative painting and graphic art. His work remains widely collected for its grace, color, and cultivated atmosphere.

Tarkay’s appeal lies in his ability to create work that feels refined without becoming cold. His compositions often carry quiet drama, strong draftsmanship, and a softness of light that makes them feel poised and timeless. Buyers who appreciate figurative art with elegance, mood, and decorative sophistication often find his work especially rewarding.

Kerja Gallery has shown works including “A Break from Tea,” “Elena,” and “Sailing San Francisco Bay,” reflecting the range within Tarkay’s work—from intimate figurative scenes to compositions with a broader sense of place and atmosphere.

Works & Images