www.tsinai.org/galleryhall

What led up to designating a Temple Sinai Gallery Hall?

In June of 2022, the Religious Practices Committee engaged Shelley Cresov, Bernice Fraum, Carol Goldsmith, Donna Lederman, Tobie Olsan, and Joyce Poleschuck to create the Temple Treasures Committee. This committee was charged with archiving and maintaining the temple Judaica and artwork.

We found artwork scattered throughout the temple, some were stored in unexpected places. Much of the artwork needed restoration. All of it plays a part in our temple history. This Gallery Hall is the outcome of two years of work bringing to light what was once hidden history and beauty.

We have just begun cataloging the artwork. The information is in a notebook in the library or on the Temple Sinai website at tsinai.org/galleryhall. Much of the history of the artwork is unknown and needs further research. In the future, we will purchase a display case to house some of the artifacts that do not hang.

Donations to the Ted Rothschild Art and Culture Fun are invited to help sustain and expand the Gallery Hall.

How can you get involved with the Gallery?

You will notice that there are several spaces specified as guest artwork. We anticipate rotating pieces of artwork in and out of those spaces for designated periods. We have so many talented temple members. We would like to highlight their work. We hope that many of you will volunteer to share some of your work with us. You can also share artwork created by another artist; something you have on display in your home. If you are interested, please visit the temple website  to see the guidelines or contact Hannah Zusmanowitz.

If you have additional information about any artwork shown, please share it with us! The committee’s next steps include reaching out to people interested in working on the temple archives.

In memory of Joyce Poleshuck and Bernice Fraum…

Joyce and Bernice were long-time, devoted, members of the Religious Practices Committee. They were in part responsible for so many of the wonderful things regarding services that have happened here at Temple Sinai. When it came time to volunteer for this Gallery Hall project, they were eager to do their part. They both passed unexpectedly, and we miss their presence greatly.

Two pieces of artwork are currently on display in their memory. The first is entitled Chabad Street Old City of Jerusalem by Lidi Merioz. It is a painting from Jerusalem donated by the Poleshuck family. It was one of Joyce’s favorite places to visit. It is located next to the Library door.

The second is entitled Challah With Tea by Alex Levin. It is a painting depicting a Shabbat meal and was selected by the Fraum family. Bernice was well known for the challah she made for so many onegs and special occasions. It is located next to the door to Conference Room A.

We hope you will take a moment to look at these paintings that were so lovingly selected by their families.

Art washes away from the soul

The dust of everyday life.