Midrash is an interpretation of text. Visual Midrash uses visual art to interpret text, bringing new meaning and inspiration.
Following Shavuot, our attention turns to a summer anticipating the High Holidays, including the reading of the book of Jonah on Yom Kippur afternoon. Jonah was a prominent subject for Jewish, Christian, and Muslim artists from the 3rd century until today. Why? What theology, emotions and spiritual expressions captured the artists’ imagination? And how can we read Jonah to enhance personally the meaning of this book and this holiday?
Join us as we read selections from the Jonah text, including interpretations in Jewish, Christian and Muslim sources, and explore sculpture and paintings from 3rd century Roman Christians to modern artistic expression. No previous background in Jewish text or art history required.