First Light exhibition image: Kamila Mróz, Well Done—What Was the Cost?, 2023.
Tuesday, January 23, 2024 | 11am–12pm
ADMISSION: Free and open to all Members with advance registration
Discover the significance of light and its power in our lives through historic and contemporary objects and art. Led by Adult Learning Program Manager Ron Glait, this virtual tour will journey through a collection of Jewish ritual objects that highlight the foundational role of light in Jewish life and ritual, both historically and today, in Radiant Practices: Illuminating Jewish Traditions. Then, immerse yourself in First Light: Rituals of Glass and Neon Art, an exhibition presenting the work of nine artists who use light and craft as a form of spiritual practice and identity expression. Learn about the fascinating scientific processes that go into creating light through neon, while engaging in deeper exploration of the role of light in our quest to understand our place in the universe. In exploring these two exhibitions together, we’ll engage with the myriad forms of light that inform and inspire our existence.
Space is limited, and advance registration required. Please register by January 22.
The CJM strives to provide a welcoming and accessible environment to all who attend our digital programming and online content. Zoom's auto-generated captions will be available for this online program.
An exhibition by She Bends
First Light: Rituals of Glass and Neon Art explores mastery in craft as a devotional practice, presenting breathtaking works that connect both artists and viewers to spirituality, wonder, and universal questions of human existence. The exhibition features artworks in neon, glass, and plasma, large-scale sculptures, and installations that invite you to learn about fascinating scientific processes while inspiring deeper contemplation of the role of light in our quest to understand our place in the universe. Experience awe, make spiritual connections, and discover the science and craft of neon and glass artwork.
First Light exhibition image: Kamila Mróz, Well Done—What Was the Cost?, 2023.
Radiant Practices: Illuminating Jewish Traditions traces the foundational role of light in Jewish life and ritual, both historically and today. Journey through a collection of Jewish ritual objects, from menorahs to memorial candles, that offer insights into practices that draw on light to mark Jewish holidays, lifecycle moments, and spiritual spaces. Presented in The CJM’s Stephen and Maribelle Leavitt Yud gallery, the exhibition brings new meaning to the presence of natural light within this symbolically rich gallery while offering new reflections on the forms of light that illuminate Jewish ritual.
Hanukkah and Sabbath lamp, c. 1875. The Peachy and Mark Levy Family Judaica Collection, Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life.
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Major funding for First Light: Rituals of Glass and Neon Art is generously provided by Grants for the Arts, Dorothy Saxe, Anita Wornick, Carla and David Crane, and David Saxe. In-kind support is graciously provided by Loquat Bakery.
Funding for Radiant Practices: Illuminating Jewish Traditions is generously provided by Grants for the Arts and Anita Wornick. Additional support is provided by the Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life. In-kind support is graciously provided by Loquat Bakery.