Submitted by ish
The Cincinnati Skirball Museum is gearing up to astound art enthusiasts and culture seekers on the evening of October 19th, 2023 beginning at 5:30 PM in Mayerson Hall on the campus of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. This much-anticipated event is poised to be an enthralling celebration of Jewish history, contemporary creativity, and the power of women.
The museum’s core exhibition, “An Eternal People: The Jewish Experience,” has undergone a meticulous transformation during its lengthy closure. Visitors can now explore updated galleries dedicated to Torah, Life Cycle, Holidays and Festivals, each with new cases, signage, and never-before-seen ritual objects from the renowned B’nai B’rith Klutznick Collection. What was once familiar has now become fresh, vibrant, and ready to be rediscovered.
On the museum’s second floor foyer, the spotlight falls on Santa Fe-based artist Ellie Beth Scott and her solo exhibition, “Eve: I Understand.” Scott’s remarkable work draws inspiration from selected ritual objects and practices associated with women in Jewish culture. Her pieces, a fusion of fabric, thread, paint, buttons, and beads, offer a vivid testament to the strength and creativity of the feminine spirit, paying homage to the power of women in Judaism.
As you ascend to the fourth floor, you’ll encounter the collaborative exhibition ‘Motherhood Essence and the Feminine Divine: Cincinnati and Israeli Artists Interpret The Female Experience,’ thoughtfully organized by ish. In commemoration of Israel’s 75th anniversary, this exhibition brings together Israeli and Cincinnati artists to creatively explore the multifaceted roles women play as community builders, organizers, and healers. The gallery will showcase a total of 40 works, based around eight original images and four artists’ reinterpretations. This exhibition embarks on a cross-cultural artistic odyssey, inviting visitors to contemplate shared human experiences that transcend geographical and cultural boundaries.
The evening’s artistic journey extends beyond the gallery walls, as ish, in partnership with local organizations, brings a meaningful community engagement element to the exhibit, allowing artists to connect and share their creativity with the broader community.
These exhibitions are the result of a collaborative effort between the Cincinnati Skirball Museum, ish, the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, the Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati, the Ohio Arts Council, and Artswave. Together, they have transformed the museum into a space that honors both local and global influences.
Join us for this spectacular evening of art, culture, and community at Mayerson Hall, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion on Thursday, October 19, 2023. The festivities commence at 5:30 p.m. with a welcoming reception, followed by introductory remarks by Abby Schwartz, curatorial consultant to the Skirball Museum, and Marie Krulewitch-Browne, Executive and Artistic Director of ish. Israeli artist Dana Cohen and Cincinnati artists Ellie Beth Scott and Avery Plummer will also share insights on their respective exhibitions, “Eve: I Understand” and “Motherhood Essence and the Feminine Divine.”
Experience the vibrancy of contemporary art, the beauty of Jewish heritage, and the empowerment of women, all in one unforgettable exhibit. This grand reopening evening promises not only a visual feast but also a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a world of art, culture, and connection. Whether you are passionate about Jewish heritage, contemporary artistry, or simply seeking an inspiring night out, this event is sure to leave a lasting impression.
For more details about the opening night and to secure your spot, visit Skirball Museum’s website.
