The attack.
In October of 2023, I went to Israel on a whim, grabbing a last minute stand-by seat and hoping to explore and be inspired to create a painting for the JNF Conference . On my very first day, as I was enjoying Tel Aviv’s beautiful beaches, chaos erupted. People everywhere ran towards shelter. Above me, bombs started exploding as the Iron Dome worked to defend the city; it was terrifying.
That night, we were repeatedly jolted awake by blaring sirens and hastily herded into safe rooms. Alongside many others, I desperately sought a way out over the next two days. The collective relief was palpable when our plane finally departed for Milan, and cheers and tears erupted as soon as we left the danger zone.
This was not the inspiration I sought but it was the inspiration I needed. I am compelled to convey the beauty and resilience of this nation, as its people work tirelessly to defend it. It’s important to remember what they are fighting for.
A city like no other, is a harmonious blend of ancient wonder and contemporary life. The beauty lies in the golden rays that illuminate the sacred stones of the Old City, where history whispers from every cobblestone street. In Jerusalem, the past and present converge, offering a captivating journey through time and culture, where each corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.
Jerusalem is the heart of it all.