Installations

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ARTIST'S STATEMENT

Ner Tamid
  
This piece is installed in the Issac M. Wise Temple. Personally, this is a very personal and special piece to me, and I was honored to be given the opportunity to give back to an establishment where I have personal ties dating back to my childhood. It was the first public commission for me to undertake since starting my own studio in 2005.

According to Jewish tradition, an object called the Ner Tamid should hang above the ark (torahs) in the chapels of temples and synagogues. The word means “eternal flame” and symbolizes God’s eternal and ongoing presence. Long ago, the Ner Tamids were lit by oil but most today are lit with electricity. Because of the significance of the Ner Tamid, once lit, it is never to be extinguished.

Creating this piece has made an everlasting and positive impact on me, not only in my career but more importantly, on my spirituality. I grew up attending Sunday school at Wise Temple and to be able to return and give back to the sanctuary was very special to me. Also, being able to contribute my interpretation of the Ner Tamid sparked within me a deep interest and passion for Judaism. I feel very fortunate for the opportunity to have made this Ner Tamid for the Isaac M. Wise Temple, and I’m very thankful that it was this project that helped me to reconnect to my heritage and faith.