Make art, not Ten Plagues

Matza and masterpieces: ‘The Art of Pesach’ exhibition.

By MIRANDA LEVINGSTON
Miriam among the reeds, and the basket she sent down the Nile (photo credit: Courtesy)
Miriam among the reeds, and the basket she sent down the Nile
(photo credit: Courtesy)
"I try to express and beautify the spirituality of Judaism, the holidays, and concepts of the Torah,” says Carol Racklin-Segal, a featured artist at the upcoming “The Art of Pesach” exhibition that opens on March 6 at the Association of American & Canadians in Israel, 37 Pierre Koenig Street.
Incorporating the work of 14 artists working in different mediums – painting, photography, papercuts, ceramics, glass, silk and more, there is a large variety of styles and objects.
“It is the largest show we have attempted so far,” says Donna Grushka, chairwoman of AACI’s Jerusalem branch in Talpiot, adding that the exhibition will include a dedicated “Sales Night” on March 27.
“AACI is a wonderful resource,” Racklin-Segal tells In Jerusalem. “It has a lot to offer – classes and entertainment and trips – and it provides a vehicle for new immigrants from North America, and now all English speakers, to find a community.”
“It’s been a lifelong journey discovering and learning about my Jewishness and the Torah. The more I learn, the more I want to incorporate my life in my art, because my art is my life,” she says.
“This year we are exhibiting a wide variety of styles and messages, pictures of the Passover story and pieces relating to the rituals and the Seder. It’s an inspiring show,” says Grushka.
AACI, a voluntary nonprofit group established in 1951 to help North American immigrants acclimate to Israeli society and to build strong ties between North American Jewish communities and Israel, offers a range of services to all English speakers.
“The Art of Pesach” will run from March 6 to April 15. For more information: www.aaci.org.il