An exhibition of thirty-eight objects, created specifically for this competition and never before exhibited, by exceptional artists from throughout the United States and fourteen foreign countries.
Click on images for artist statements and details

TEMPLE JUDEA MUSEUM
Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel
Old York and Township Line Roads
Elkins Park, PA 19027

 


GRAND PRIZE - Luigi Del Monte, Milan, Italy
Philadelphia Reflections, The Judith Altman Sabbath Lamp
Sterling silver, Rhodium plated
By establishing this competition, the Altman family and the Temple Judea Museum endeavor to encourage artists to turn their attention to the Judaic object, and recognize and promote accomplishment in the arena of Jewish ceremonial art. We want to advance the dialogue as to how an object of ritual use is visually defined in the twenty-first century, and additionally, to promote awareness of the contemporary Judaic object among families, schools, synagogues, museums, and collectors as objects to be collected, used, and treasured in the observance of Jewish tradition.

As the subject of this competition we chose objects connected with Jewish rituals that employ lights in their observance. Light has so many positive associations: the beauty of flame; light as a metaphor for knowledge and understanding; and the physical interplay of an evanescent light with the concrete physicality of its container. Throughout Jewish scriptures and in our prayers light is a constant reference.

A Jewish ceremonial object is an object to be used. It has no purpose if it is not employed in the observance of a ritual. Thus a static object is really a dynamic force connecting us to our tradition and our religion. The artists who created the beautiful objects for this competition serve as the go betweens ­ the interpreters ­ the enticers ­ stimulating our desire to fulfill the mitzvot of our tradition. We thank them for their ingenuity, their creativity, their superior craftsmanship and their vision.

Without the support, work, and encouragement of Herb Altman this competition could not have taken place. Special thanks to Herb, and to his family, for allowing us this opportunity to honor the memory of Judith Altman, who worked tirelessly for this museum.

Rita Rosen Poley
Director/Curator
The Temple Judea Museum


DISTINGUISHED MERIT
John Casner, Seersmont, ME
Hannuka Menorah

DISTINGUISHED MERIT
Marian Slepian, Bridgewater, NJ
Sabbath Candlesticks

DISTINGUISHED MERIT
Daniela Hoffman, Oakland CA
Olive Blossom
DEDICATION

During her lifetime, Judith Altman had many passions. Her love of family, especially for her children and beautiful grandchildren was paramount; their development and accomplishments were proudly cherished. Her daily activities demonstrated a longing for literature, orchestra, opera, and art. When opportunities became available to channel those interests she was at her happiest. Her association with fellow volunteers and the exceptional staffs of the Craft Show of the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Temple Judea Museum were prime examples of her continuing education and appreciation of the arts.

How then to honor her memory? What better way than to initiate a juried international competition among contemporary craft artists for an exhibition to be held at the Temple Judea Museum where she held the position of co-chair of the Friends group. The response by artists from all parts of the United States and fourteen foreign countries was overwhelmingly gratifying to the family and Museum members. We know she would have been proud to have shared this beautiful tribute with so many. The nearly two-year long preparation has been a labor of love. Not one moment of it could have happened without the knowledge, advice, and hard work of many dedicated people. Our eternal thanks to Rita Rosen Poley, Director/Curator of the Temple Judea Museum, who conceived, researched, developed, and professionally managed every phase of the competition. We extend our sincere appreciation to Norma Meshkov and Karen Sirota for their support as presidents of Keneseth Israel; to Rabbi Sussman and the entire K.I. staff; and to the wonderful volunteers of the Museum Committee led by Chair Karen Schloss. We are most proud and privileged to have enjoyed the knowledge and expertise of our jurors and advisors. Their prestige and reputation throughout the worlds of Craft and Judaica prompted the exceptional response of so many gifted artists. The culmination of this competition, and its resulting exhibition, has allowed our family to share the treasure that was Judith Altman.

The Altman Family

DISTINGUISHED MERIT
Raquel Stolarski- Assael, Mexico
Blessing for the Righteous
DISTINGUISHED MERIT - Ede Horton, Australia
Hanukkah Menorah
Cast lead crystal glass

DISTINGUISHED MERIT
Hershel Mutka Weiss, Albuquerque, NM
Temple Sabbath Menorah