The golem—a mythical creature made of clay and brought to life by its human creator—is one of the most widely-recognized characters to emerge from Jewish folklore. For centuries, the story of the golem has maintained widespread popular appeal, securing an enduring place in supernatural mythology and inspiring the global imagination. Journey with us to discover the origins and manifestations of one of history's most misunderstood monsters.
This video was originally published on The CJM's Facebook Live on October 17, 2021.
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Uncanny, mysterious, and satirical, GOLEM: A Call to Action is an exhibition by artist Julie Weitz that draws on Jewish folklore to inspire action around social justice and environmental disasters. The exhibition’s three works—Golem v. Golem, My Golem as a Wildland Firefighter, and Prayer for Burnt Forests—frame a view of nature that emphasizes cultural issues and ecological catastrophe, while acknowledging human beings’ implicit responsibility for repair.
Header image: Julie Weitz, My Golem as The Great Dominatrix, 2018. Performance, Los Angeles Nomadic Division, Blue Roof Studios, Los Angeles, CA.
Exhibition image: My Golem as a Wildland Firefighter (PSA), film still 2, 2020