Submitted by ish
In the intricate tapestry of challenging times, ish, in collaboration with Rookwood Pottery and the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati’s Bicentennial Legacy Project, proudly unveils the Cincinnati Menorah — a poignant symbol of Jewish tradition and the universal tenets of Chanukah.
With record-rising antisemitism, the act of outwardly acknowledging and celebrating Jewish culture feels more critical than ever. As attempts to delegitimize Jewish contributions persist, the Cincinnati Menorah stands as a powerful counter-narrative. This exclusive new commission release represents a fusion of old and new traditions. A contemporary masterpiece, it echoes historical significance while becoming a unique piece of Cincinnati Jewish history, creating an heirloom for new generations to come. “It’s not merely a piece of art; it’s a resolute stand against hate and a statement of the invaluable contributions Jews have made throughout American history,” says Abby Schwartz, Director of Cincinnati Skirball Museum and ish’s acting Board Chair. “The Cincinnati Menorah serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring human spirit, a guiding light urging us to find beauty, joy, and unity even in the face of adversity, echoing the very essence of the Chanukah story.”
Crafted by the skilled hands of Rookwood Pottery’s Maxwell Holden and Jen Watson, this limited-edition menorah transcends the conventional. Its abstract yet versatile design symbolizes resilience and new ideas, and pays homage to the transformative legacy of Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise, a pioneer of Reform Judaism in America, and the founder of Hebrew Union College, America’s first and the world’s longest operating reform Jewish seminary. The intentional two-part design embraces pluralism, offering choice in how users celebrate holiday rituals. While technically not a traditional (Kosher) chanukiah by halachic standards, these menorahs double as candle holders for two larger tapered candles, allowing more conservative and traditionally observant Jews to use them for weekly or festival Shabbat use, and for cultural Jews, interfaith, and “ishy folks,” friends, allies, and close family members, to find personal meaning in exploring Jewish traditions through its use.
Influenced by contemporary values to adapt and personalize Jewish traditions, ish, as an organization, responds to changing generational demographics and the evolving nature of young Jewish identity today. ish boldly stands at the intersection of tradition, innovation, and inclusivity, embracing both first-timers, supporters, and seasoned traditionalists into our work. “We are proud to celebrate Cincinnati’s rich Jewish history…this project is the perfect manifestation of our mission,” says Lauren Goldberg, Cincinnati native and Director of Communications and Brand at ish. “We are not only elevating the dynamic spirit of Cincinnati and the contributions Cincinnati Jews have made to American culture, we are also standing resilient against hate, and welcoming people of many different backgrounds to connect over Jewish customs.”
The Jewish Federation sponsored the Cincinnati Menorah project through special “leave-behind” funds generated from Jewish Cincinnati Bicentennial events. “We were happy to support the project. We wanted these funds to be used to inspire the next two hundred years of vibrant Jewish community life in Cincinnati,” says Danielle Minson, CEO & President of the Jewish Federation. Beyond being a beautiful centerpiece for any occasion, all proceeds from menorah sales go back to support ish’s community engagement work. “We are so grateful to the Federation for supporting this project,” says Marie Krulewitch-Browne, Executive & Artistic Director. “Dayenu, that would have been enough, and, due to their generous support, purchasing a Cincinnati Menorah is a profound act of contribution to the continuity of Jewish life and culture by helping make future ish arts and cultural events possible,” says Krulewitch-Browne.
ish envisions a world where the healing and transformative power of arts, creative experiences, and Jewish wisdom are integral to personal and communal well-being. Just as the menorah serves as a beacon of light against hate, ish calls our community to gather around that light, and create opportunities to foster connections and acceptance despite rising challenges. By lighting up not just homes but hearts, the Cincinnati Menorah stands as a tangible representation of a commitment to ensuring Jewish traditions, creativity, and pluralism can shine bright.
Join ish, Rookwood Pottery, and the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, in shining through hate and illuminating traditions. Own a piece of Cincinnati history. Act fast — only a limited number are made. Purchase your limited-edition, handmade Cincinnati Menorah now, on the ish website, and be part of this powerful movement.