Baobab Studio was established in 2003 by Sasha Galitsky, an artist and author, and is a groundbreaking Israeli social initiative combining art and wood carving with community and psychological support. The model was developed in collaboration with therapists, artists, and community members in direct response to needs identified within various vulnerable communities, including elderly individuals displaced from conflict-affected areas across the country.
About 20 years ago, Galitsky began teaching wood carving to residents of a senior care home, and since then he has shared his passion for creativity with those who need it most. The journey has shown him a simple yet profound truth: Creativity restores resilience and breathes life back into the soul, especially for those who have faced difficulties. Over the years, this mission has grown, and in times when the Israeli reality involves loss, displacement, and uncertainty, “Baobab Studio” offers a different space—a place where hands create, the heart heals, and the community reconnects.
The studio operates in small group formats, providing participants with a creative, healing, and non-judgmental space, an opportunity for personal expression through manual work, and above all, a supportive group framework that strengthens social bonds. Among its notable activities: Wood carving workshops led by professional artists, with adaptations for seniors / dedicated programs for elderly displaced persons from conflict-affected areas, training of instructors and teachers, integrating new immigrants as teaching staff.
Baobab Studio is run by a diverse and enthusiastic team of professionals, including artists, educators, psychologists, and social entrepreneurs. Research conducted by Ariel University in 2024 found that participation in Baobab Studio led to a significant decrease in depression (33%) and anxiety (13%), improvement in mental well-being (11%), and an increase in personal resilience (15%). All participants recommended the activity and wanted to continue. The wooden artworks created were exhibited in galleries and became symbols of resilience and hope.
Since the outbreak of Operation Iron Swords, the studio has expanded its activities to 17 locations across the country, including Be’eri, Hatzor, Re’im, Kisufim, Kfar Aza, Sha’ar Hanegev, Eshkol, and the Center for Victims of Terror in Beersheba.
Sasha Galitsky, founder, artist, and creator of the methodology: “Baobab is just the tool. The community itself is the medicine. We see how every wood chip that falls from the sculpture is like a layer shedding from each participant. The research conducted by Ariel University is exactly the proof of what we experience every day—art and creation lead to a significant decrease in depression and anxiety, along with an increase in personal resilience and a notable improvement in mental well-being. But beyond the numbers, what truly heals is the community built here—new connections, bonds, and renewed trust in ourselves.”
Ahead of 2026, Baobab is preparing to open 20 new centers across the country, including in Sderot, Kiryat Shmona, kibbutzim in the north, and the surrounding communities, to expand activities for war victims and discharged soldiers. Additionally, an auction of artworks by well-known artists is planned, with proceeds dedicated to aiding war victims.