As the Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art commemorates its 50th anniversary this year, it is launching a powerful new exhibition titled “Fallout: October 7 and the New Antisemitism.”
This installation aims to delve into the aftermath of the terrorist attacks in Israel that occurred in the fall of 2023, exploring how these events have reshaped perspectives globally.
In collaboration with the Jewish Art Salon, the museum is housed at Congregation Rodeph Shalom, emphasizing its commitment to the Jewish community and art.
Robin Blumenfeld Switzenbaum, co-chair of the Philadelphia Museum of Jewish Art Committee, highlighted the exhibition’s intention to showcase a range of viewpoints on the conflict in Israel and Gaza, mirroring the diverse opinions within the Rodeph Shalom community.
“We have always tried to have a very diverse group of artists submit work,” she stated.
The open call for artwork has yielded pieces embodying various perspectives, including a flag combining both the Israeli and Palestinian flags, a symbol of the effort to exhibit pluralistic views.
The artworks on display cover a range of media and address different aspects of the events from October 7 and their ramifications.
Among the notable pieces are a photograph of a child’s shoe found among the rubble at a kibbutz post-Hamas attack, a series of paintings that challenge enduring stereotypes about Jewish physical features, and a striking painting depicting a female IDF soldier standing proudly against a serene backdrop of blue water, symbolizing the defense of the Jewish homeland.
Additionally, handmade prayer amulets are part of the exhibition, aimed at serving as protection for hostages currently held in Gaza.
Yona Verwer, director of the Jewish Art Salon, emphasized the necessity of this exhibition in her foreword, particularly in light of the increasing antisemitism observed across the nation and the globe.
“This collection of artworks confronts an urgent issue that remains underexplored in too many cultural spaces today,” Verwer remarked.
She stressed that the rise of new antisemitism, especially following the tragic events of October 7, deserves significant attention, with the exhibited works articulating this pressing issue with emotional depth.
The exhibition is anticipated to open in the coming weeks, with final touches such as placards and labels being arranged.
It is expected to be on view until February, and the local community is eagerly awaiting its debut, according to Blumenfeld Switzenbaum.
“They [will] find it very emotionally and intellectually stimulating,” she expressed.
A panel discussion featuring several artists from the exhibition is planned for November 20 at the synagogue, inviting broader participation from the Jewish community and Philadelphia residents.
The exhibition seeks to navigate the complex nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the ongoing challenges faced by Jews worldwide since the events of October 7.
The museum is committed to both supporting Israel and advocating for peace in the region, as reflected in a document regarding the exhibit.
“Our congregation is devoted to a continuation of the Jewish peoplehood and a democratic Jewish homeland. We affirm Israel’s right to exist as an expression of a millennial-long dream. We are committed to pluralism and civil rights for everyone living within Israel,” the document states.
It continues with a hopeful vision for the future, aiming for shared liberation for both Israelis and Palestinians.
Blumenfeld Switzenbaum noted the significant role the museum plays within the Rodeph Shalom community and the broader Jewish community in the area.
“We’re very fortunate. The museum is now celebrating its 50th year, so we’ve had a long history. Our synagogue in itself is just a beautiful work of art, and so I think [that the] people who set this up 50 years ago felt it was an important component of experience,” she stated, reflecting on the museum’s lasting importance.
image source from：jewishexponent
