Thursday, Jan. 22, 5:30 pm
Sandler Family Campus
The next installment of the Judaica and the Arts series presented by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Konikoff Center for Learning, invites community members to explore Jewish tradition through both learning and hands-on creativity with a special focus on the mizrach, a ritual object rich in history and meaning.
A mizrach—Hebrew for “east”—is traditionally placed on the eastern wall of a Jewish home to indicate the direction of Jerusalem. For centuries, it has served as a spiritual compass, helping orient prayer and reminding those in the space of their connection to the Land of Israel and the broader Jewish people. Over time, mizrachim have also become an important form of Jewish artistic expression, reflecting the styles, symbols, and cultural influences of Jewish communities around the world. From illuminated manuscripts and calligraphy to folk art and contemporary designs, each mizrach tells a story about both tradition and the individual who displays it.
The program begins with a learning session on Thursday, January 22. Led by Rabbi Ari Oliszewski, he will explore the history, evolution, and spiritual significance of the mizrach. Participants will examine how this ritual object bridges sacred space and everyday life, transforming a wall in the home into a reminder of intention, direction, and Jewish identity.
Following the learning session, participants will take part in a hands-on art workshop, choosing between Sunday, January 25 at 2 pm or Thursday, January 29 at 5:30 pm. The workshop will be taught by local artist Sharon Serbin and will focus on creating a stained-glass mosaic mizrach. Guided through the process step by step, participants will design and craft a piece of functional Judaica that reflects both ancient tradition and personal creativity.
Prior art experience is not necessary. All materials will be provided.
The Judaica and the Artsseries offers an opportunity to bring Jewish ritual, learning, and artistry together in a meaningful and memorable way. To learn more or register, visit JewishVA.org/Mizrach or contact Sierra Lautman at SLautman@ujft.org.