Free Art Reception: Birds of Longing: Exile and Memory

The Osher Marin JCC is pleased to present Birds of Longing: Exile and Memory, a new exhibition by the New York-based fiber artist, Laurie Wohl. Meet the artist at the FREEopening reception on Wednesday, January 20, 2016, from 5-7pm, and hear her speak on this powerful project, what the catalyst was for its creation, and how it seeks to connect Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

Location: Osher Marin JCC, 200 N. San Pedro Rd, San Rafael

Artist’s Statement on “Birds of Longing”

“Birds of Longing: Exile and Memory” interweaves Muslim, Jewish and Christian poetry and spiritual texts from the period of the Convivencia in Spain and from contemporary Middle Eastern poets, particularly Palestinian and Israeli, in the context of my Unweavings® fiber art pieces. For this project I emphasize the striking parallels between Arabic and Hebrew texts, both rich in the poetry of spiritual love, with common these of exile, nostalgia for Andalusia, mistrust of enemies, and yearning for reconciliation.

An audio component is integral to the project and consists of readings in English, Arabic, and Hebrew of the portions of the poems and spiritual texts contained in the Unweavings. The Arabic and Hebrew texts are read by native speakers of those languages, which are then interwoven to create a soundscape illustrating the commonality of the Middle Eastern languages.

My hope for the project is that its visual and auditory impact will make vivid for viewers the connections among the Abrahamic religions and stimulate reflection on their shared emotional, aesthetic and thematic content.”

ABOUT THE “SALAAM, SHALOM” SERIES

This event is part of a free program series designed to increase dialogue and understanding between local faith communities, supported by multiple religious organizations across Marin.

The Salaam, Shalom series is generously supported by Tricia and Richard Gibbs.

For more information: MARINJCC.ORG/BIRDSOFLONGING