Miriam-Jubilation Takes Flight

Each of these paintings embodies the notion of joy, and the incredible free spirit of that immersion in joy. In the last one, jubilation takes flight as it contains a symbolic reference to her being an angel. Her feet literally don’t touch the ground, and her fabric is reminiscent of a wing.

Miriam-Dancing with Timbrel

Miriam danced on the shores of the Red Sea after the Exodus. She wanted to praise God and show gratitude for the miracle of their escape. I tried to imagine what kind of dancing she could have done before 600,000 people on the shores of the Red Sea that would have such an impact that thousands of years later. We still remember and talk about it.

Miriam-Exultation to God

In a dance of gratitude for saving the Jewish people, I envisioned Miriam waving billowing scarves to emphasize her movements for the crowd. The ceremony included a men’s and a women’s song. The men’s song, the "Mi K’Mocho" (who is like you, oh God) is still used in our prayers today. The complete women’s song was lost in antiquity, though the remains of a phrase believed to be part of the original women’s song was found by archeologists carved in stone.

Sarah-The Last Moment of Innocence

Sarah In her day Sarah was regarded as the most beautiful woman in the land. She was known for her wisdom and sound advice. “The Last Moment of Innocence” In this single moment Sarah’s life changed and she was forever transformed from innocent to defiant.

Sarah-Defiance

“Defiance” Her expression in the painting is intended to convey that she has become steeled to her fate. Innocence is replaced with inner strength, but also ultimately with acceptance.

Sarah-Mirth

The last painting of Sarah is titled “Mirth” which means gladness or gaiety as shown by or accompanied with laughter. This third painting conveys that the mother of all the Jewish people was not just a great beauty. Her value was her character, and her ability to accept life with joy and good humor, even in the face of adversity.

Naomi Welcomes Ruth

Naomi’s loving care as Ruth left behind all her family and all her former beliefs. Naomi welcomed Ruth into her home and tribe and taught her the ways of Judaism.

Full Circle-Naomi & Ruth

Ruth laboring in the fields was able to provide for Naomi. Their relationship comes full circle as depicted in the second painting. The one who was taken in and nurtured becomes the caregiver and nurturer.

Anguished Protrait of Vashti

In this first painting she is anguished. She is enchained by her status and position. Her jewels symbolize the paradox of her position.

Epiphany

Vashti realized that the man before her was not just any man. He was in fact the angel Gabriel, the angel of justice and strength. He said, "I am here to request that you commit an act of sacred rebellion."

Messenger From God

She could defy the king’s order. She could go to him, throw down the crown, and refuse to do his bidding. Though she might be punished with death, she would still have retained her dignity. A new found awareness that she can honor herself no matter the trials placed in her path, is depicted in this third painting.

Esther

The queen to follow Vasti. The coldness and anger the King had felt in his heart is melted and he decides this young girl will be his new bride, the King loving Esther more than any other.

Batsheba

Batsheba