Faced with an ongoing pandemic, and in possession of hundreds of beautiful Judaica pieces that speak to the history, culture and art that explains and defines Judaism across centuries and around the globe, The Michael Klein Collection at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah is expanding its offering of virtual tours. The tours, which are free of charge, are available both to the public and to private groups and focus on education through the stories that lie behind each piece in the collection.
“Early on in the pandemic, we recognized a growing need for engaging and educational virtual programming for adults. To fill the gap, we began Collection Connection, which quickly became a popular series of weekly virtual tours last spring. After a summer hiatus, we came back in the fall with monthly public tours, and we are now adding group tours and artist showcase events,” said Abby Magariel, educator/curator of the collection.
One such event is “Jewish Papercuts: A Virtual Program,” which features Pennsylvania-based artist and historian Susan Leviton. Eventgoers will learn about the art of papercutting and its unique role in Jewish life. Leviton will explore the multicultural history of the art form and discuss an array of Jewish papercuts from Eastern Europe, North Africa and the Americas, including papercuts from the Klein Collection and her own work.
“As a master paper cutter, Leviton’s work uncovers historic art forms and shines a light on them for 21st century art lovers to enjoy. Her unique take on Jewish art will add a new dimension to this virtual event,” said Magariel.
“Jewish Papercuts” takes place at 1 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15. The event is free and open to the public, and registration is required. Register online by Friday, Nov. 13, at www.bnaijehudah.org/collection-connection.
In addition to “Jewish Papercuts,” Collection Connection events occur at 1 p.m. on the second Monday of each month via Zoom. The virtual tours are led by Magariel and offer stories and insights into Jewish traditions. Upcoming events include “Giving and Giving Thanks: Tzedakah Boxes, Dedications and Honors” on Nov. 16, and “Hanukkah with The Klein Collection” on Dec. 14.
“The 60-minute Collection Connection tours include time for questions, discussion and an opportunity for participants to share their own beloved pieces of Judaica. Our audience quickly grew to more than 70 participants at each tour, and it has really been an enjoyable experience for those who wish to learn more about the art, history and culture of the Jewish people,” said Magariel, who is working on plans for additional Collection Connection offerings starting in February 2021.
The monthly tours and the “Jewish Papercuts” events are free and open to the public. All programs are brought to you by The Klein Collection at The Temple, Congregation B’nai Jehudah. For more information, or to register for any of The Klein Collection’s public events, go to www.bnaijehudah.org/collection-connection, or contact Magariel, 913-663-4050, .
Private groups seeking tours are also invited to contact Magariel directly to discuss tour dates, as well as themes and topics that match the group’s interests.
