The Triumph of Mordecai

by: Publisher

Tue Mar 08, 2011 at 22:19:15 PM EST

I was so glad to be able to participate in the Old City Jewish Art Center Purim Art Exhibition. The opening reception was a joyous occasion and it was a wonderful opportunity to see all of my friends at the OCJAC and see all of the artwork inspired by the holiday of Purim.

My painting,"The Triumph of Mordecai," depicts a man who is happily celebrating Purim. He is wearing a "Mordecai" mask and is also wearing an extremely elaborate horse costume around his waist which is worn by celebrants to commemorate Mordecai's triumphant ride on King Ahasuerus' horse. He is playing the violin and dancing which is part of the merriment that is required on Purim.                  

I have to admit that my own family Purim costumes were a much more low-key event. My son and I always created a Purim outfit for him utilizing the obligatory empty milk carton for his helmet and a bright bathrobe became his biblical attire. My two daughters wanted, of course, to always be Queen Esther and we three "girls" enthusiastically transformed ourselves into Queen Esther using anything bright that we could find in our closets. I think the excitement and fun my husband and our three children (now grown) associate with the holiday of Purim is reflected in my painting.

Details about the exhibition and artist reception after the jump.

A meet the artist reception will be held this Sunday, March 13, 1-4 pm, Delicious refreshments and live music 1:30-3:00 pm. Featured artists include: Ellen Abraham, Rhea Dennis, Ruth Pinkenson Feldman, Lynnrae Fenimore, Adam Levin, Michael Neff, Deborah Schafer, Mark Segal, and Professor Alexander Shteynberg.