Earlier in November, FENTSTER hosted a gathering by and for Jewish artists and creatives after hearing from many as they processed deep feelings of pain, anger, fear, confusion, isolation and grief over these last two months. It was powerful and moving to connect with other Jews in the art world who are grappling with a similar set of challenges particular to these artistic communities during these weeks of violence and war. In response to requests from those in attendance, we are offering another gathering - this time during the Festival of Lights.
This gathering is a space to connect, to share our heartbreak and to explore tools for grounding and supporting ourselves in difficult times. Our time together will be centred around deep listening as well as grounding through song and mindfulness practice. It is our goal to counter isolation with connection, and to open towards hopefulness and healing. After our listening circle, we’ll shift to lighting candles together for the 6th night of Chanukah with time to visit with each other and enjoy some Chanukah treats.
This gathering will be facilitated by FENTSTER Curator, Evelyn Tauben who has over ten years of experience with various counselling modalities as well as with hosting thoughtful convenings of creatives. Evelyn will be joined by educator and multidisciplinary artist, Sara Yacobi-Harris who is also the co-founder of No Silence on Race as well as artist, soferet and educator, Rabbi Rachel “Bluth” Rosenbluth.
We do not presuppose any particular political orientations and affiliations. However, this is not a context for political debate or to advocate for specific political solutions.
Check out this beautiful guide of Art, Teachings & Ritual for the 8 nights of Channukah created by Rabbi Bluth & Kohenet Naomi Izen
There is no fee to participate but advanced registration is required. Space is limited.
** Please note: we’ll be gathering at a new location on Dupont near Spadina. The address will be sent to all registrants.**
Presented by FENTSTER & No Silence on Race
If you’re not sure whether this gathering is for you, feel free to reach out: info@fentster.org
What to Expect from Us
We will begin with an opening circle and grounding practice. We will share communication guidelines that we have developed over time to support resilient listening, honest reflection rooted in our own experiences and the capacity to hold conflicting truths, even within ourselves. We will share responsibility for creating a safe space where everyone is held and can share with authenticity. We will have the opportunity to share and listen within the full group as well as in structured listening pairs. No one will be forced or pressured to do or share anything that they are not comfortable with. We will also offer some framing on the dynamics of anti-Jewish oppression as it impacts our experience as Jews and our capacity to navigate these difficult times with clarity and wisdom. We will close with song and a mindfulness practice.
Additional updates may be added here as we continue to develop the plan and structure for this gathering.
If you have specific questions or concerns, do not hesitate to be in touch with FENTSTER: info@fentster.org
Tea and vegetarian snacks will also be provided. The space is only accessible by a flight of stairs.
What We Expect from You
Join us with an open mind and open heart. Be prepared to sing a little, sit a little in quiet contemplation and to meet other Jewish artists who may be having similar or very different experiences to you at this moment. Be prepared to hold this contradiction.
Everyone is requested to be on time and stay for the duration of the gathering - as we are creating a container and opening with communal intentions, it is not possible to admit latecomers.
This is not a space to debate or argue. Anyone being combative will be asked to leave.
We kindly ask that all participants refrain from wearing clothing with slogans or bringing posters or flags into the space.
Artwork by Bluth’s Creative Studio, which appears in Light: A Chanukah Guide, 2023