Ancient Threads / New Tapestries (5786)
This series is a result of a quest to develop a visual language that both participates in a living Jewish tradition and rejects the monolithic narratives about Jewish identity and values propagated by many contemporary Jewish institutions that claim authority over that tradition.
Each of these paintings is loosely connected to a part of the Jewish calendar year. I created each of them at the times of year to which they refer. I will update this series as we cycle through the rest of 5786.
Rumblings, 2026. Oil pastel and oil on Arches paper, 26" x 42". Inspired by the poem "Shvilim" by Lishai Peel.
Diaspora (Rosh Hashanah), 2025. Gouache and colored pencil on Arches paper, 30" x 22".
Atonement (Kol Nidre), 2025. Gouache on Rives BFK paper, 30" x 22".
Closing Gates (Neilah), 2025. Photograph (of an ephemeral painting made with Tyvek, Rives BFK paper, acrylic, gouache, oil paint, and thread on window).
Harvest (Sukkot), 2025. Gouache and colored pencil on Tyvek, 36" x 24".
What do the birds think? (Shemini Atzeret), 2025. Gouache and colored pencil on Tyvek, 36" x 24". This piece was inspired by an unpublished poem of the same title by Aviva Zeldman.
In a Time of Danger (Hanukkah), 2025. Children's book, drywall joint compound, graphite, gouache, fabric, wire, and reclaimed poster frame. 24" x 36." Closed curtain view.
In a Time of Danger (Hanukkah), 2025. Children's book, drywall joint compound, graphite, gouache, fabric, wire, and reclaimed poster frame. 24" x 36." Open curtain view.
Frost Line (Tu Bishvat), 2026. Gouache, oil pastel on Rives BFK paper, 22" x 30".
The King (Purim), 2026. Charcoal and acrylic gouache on Rives BFK paper, 22" x 30".
Eggs I (Passover), 2026. Photographic collage with oil, Tyvek, drawing paper, pastel, and window light. 12" x 9"
Eggs II (Passover), 2026. Acrylic and pastel on Tyvek, 24" x 24".
Eggs III (Passover), 2026. Photograph, 12" x 9".