An exhibition and public art project portraying local families who live in an interfaith household or crossed interfaith bridges. The project was created in collaboration with the YM&YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood, NYC.

From the project introduction (June 2015):

“The YM&YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood strives to create an environment that is caring and supportive to all members of the community. Guided by strong principles of inclusivity, our ongoing goal is to ensure that the service continuum offers individuals and families of diverse backgrounds the programs and services they require.

With support from a grant from UJA-Federation of NY, in Building Bridges we turned our focus to the interfaith families/partnerships who are affiliated with the Y to share this message. As defined by the grant, “interfaith” referred to relationships that were Jewish/non-Jewish in nature. These relationships vary greatly and cover a broad spectrum, from those who are Jews by birth, Jews by choice, those who choose to practice only Jewish traditions, as well as those who practice both Jewish and non-Jewish traditions. 

A call for participation was sent out to members of the Y community. We looked at couples, nuclear families, extended families and individuals. Those who responded to our call to share their stories were involved in two sessions: the first was an interview conducted by Y social worker Chevi Marks, and locally-based artist, Yael Ben-Zion; the second was a photography session by Yael in the participants’ homes. Posters, consisting of selected photos and quotes, were then displayed around the community in various local venues: Buunni Coffee, Dichter Pharmacy, Key Food, Theresa Pharmacy, Word Up Community Bookshop, and 181 Cabrini Restaurant. 

Today we are sharing the vitality and diversity of the Y community with you by exhibiting the images of, and full interviews with, the project’s participants.”

Press: 

Manhattan Times.

See here for the print edition.