Inspiration

So much inspiration that led to the creation of this body of work. The title is a tale of all.

Here is my artist statement

FLAME - A TRIOLOGY OF FAITH, COURAGE, AND BELONGING

In my series, I explore the stories of three powerful women in Jewish history, each embodying leadership and motherhood rooted in love. The fourth figure represents the universal Jewish woman, a spiritual mother, leader, and nurturer.

Called a “mother in Israel,” Deborah was protective, and visionary, guiding her people with wisdom and courage. Henrietta Szold profoundly inspired me: she founded Hadassah and Youth Aliyah, rescuing children from Nazi-occupied Europe and earning the title “mother of Youth Aliyah.” Hannah Szenes, a young poet and soldier, demonstrated heroism born of spiritual love, famously declaring, “He who has not lived for others has not lived at all.” Each of these women exemplifies maternal, selfless devotion to the Jewish people, grounded in faith, courage, and compassion.

Symbolism is central to my work. A unifying element across these paintings is the flame—representing light, passion, courage, and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people. Each flame also evokes the uniqueness and preciousness of the Jewish soul, as radiant and invaluable as a gemstone.

My research for these paintings spans centuries and texts, from the Tanach story of Deborah, the prophet and judge, and her victory over Sisera’s army, to Psalm 137, which calls us to remember, mourn the Temple, and strive toward a better future. I also drew extensively on the lives and writings of Hannah Szenes and Henrietta Szold, whose courage and devotion embody the ideal of Ahavat Yisrael—love for the Jewish people. Through the series, I honor these women’s spiritual leadership, and the enduring light Jewish women bring to the world.