Spertus Updates
More potential images
Many of you know that I am working on a photo project in conjunction with the Spertus Institute in Chicago. My particular participation is to create a documentary/record of Jewish life in Chicago today. I’ve been out and about, photographing different appropriate things around the city, and I’ll eventually choose which images to include. The photo above of renowned Hazzan Alberto Mizrahi, from Anshe Emet Synagogue, is from last Monday. Though I took several photos, at this point I really like this particular image as I feel it captures his personality in the physical context of his office. Maybe it will get included in the final project! What an honor and pleasure for me to be able to spend some time chatting with this impressive man and taking his photo.
And, in this blog post, are some more photos that could “make the cut.” What do you think?
Above is Rabbi Notik of the local Riverwoods Chabad as he muses over the conclusion of Chanukah. This Menorah was on Deerfield Road and was illuminated every night of the Holiday this year. I tried to capture the “urban-ness” and “in the neighborhood feel” of the setting by capturing the motion of the cars as they sped by. Might make a good addition to my Spertus Institute collection.
While I was at the Congregation B’nai Tikvah Music Program, I saw this gorgeous and touching scene of three generations embracing. Later, as I spoke with him, I realized it was Bernie, the Music Director who was sitting in the audience at the end of the show.
A little splash of color…and a lot of concentration! Gabe, admiring his skill with the Dreidel on Chanukah.
Speaking of Dreidels… Here is part of our friend, Florie’s, extensive and impressive collection. Over 350!! Each one has a story.
Such a wonderful image of Shabbat!
The last image I’m going to include in this post is a still life just as I “found it” at Congregation Rodfei Zedek, a famous synagogue on the South Side of Chicago. Books of Law and Wisdom (which I am trying to capture for the Spertus Institute). Old texts, with character! With the “yad” (pointer) laying perfectly next to the books.
These are just a sample of what I’ve been working on. And, I’ve got plenty more ideas and destinations in the coming weeks. And I’m going to have some difficulty choosing what to include in the Spertus exhibit, I’m sure!
-Stephen M. Levin
www.stephenmlevinphotos.com
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There is a certain romance to these pictures. I find no political statement here, just an imagery that’s warm and subtly iconic.
Thanks Stephen
Thankd, Brad! I appreciate your observations and assessment very much.
What an honor to be chosen to photograph for the Spertus Institute. Your initial work is outstanding starting with your image from France. You can sense the urgency in the motion of the image. Your images of the Cemetery and people show a deep inner sense in how you create images. Your post processing adds to that capability.
Thanks for you kind words and observations, Stan. Much appreciated!
This is such an impressive and important project. I look forward to seeing more and more images. You have captured some beautiful moments and lovely still life images. Well done!
I’ve got a lot of other ideas in my mind. I am looking forward to capturing more and more…there’s so much!
Of course, thanks much, Anne.
I can feel your passion and excitement for this project. That’s what makes photography fun and meaningful! Keep it up!
Absolutely, Anne! You’re right.
Wonderful project! Great pictures! You have captured some great moments!
Thanks, Jeff! Glad you like them. More comin’!
Stephen,
What a great way to use your photography to give back to the community. I am sure it is and will be very rewarding. My favorites are Bernie, the dreidel, the still life of the books, and the rabbi by the roadside menorah. Happy New Year!
Thanks so much for your feedback. It’s nice for me to know what people like….and then compare that to my preferences! haha
“Gabe and the Dreidel” could well be titled “Gabes and the Dreidels,” as reflection plays an interesting role. All nice work, as usual; visual stories.
Yes! Good observation!
Always like your comments, Mike.
Beautiful photos! But I’m curious to see what you find that represents Jewish Chicago TODAY. How is our children’s Jewish Chicago different from our parents’ Jewish Chicago?
We HAVE to get together to discuss this!
I know that today’s Jewish world is not the same as when I was growing up.
Do you think it’s the same? I’d be very interested to hear your impressions and perspective.
Glad you like the photos, Sheryl! And, thanks for commenting.
What you capture in today’s Jewishness, is so different than I was growing up. Today seems like more fun, yesterdays was more strict. Again, great stuff.
More fun today? That’s an interesting insight! I’d like to hear more about that. Let’s chat.
Thanks, Ben.
Today’s Jewish world and culture may be different from that of generations before, but that does not levy a value judgement on it. If there is one thing constant about Judaism over the millennia is that it has evolved with the times and continues to do so. That is why the Jewish people have continued to thrive while many other peoples have been relegated to the history books.
Good points, Judy. And, of course, you know I am not being judgmental with this…just an observer. And, an explorer!
I always love to see your photographs, Steve.
So much texture and personality in all of them.
(I can’t pick a favorite).
Looking forward to what’s ahead!
I have a hard time picking a favorite, too!
SO glad that you enjoy the photos, Carol.
Thank you Stephen for the beautiful shot of our Menorah! Lot’s of other great photos on your blog. I’m especially intrigued by the Dreidel collection, how do we get the scoop on some of the stories behind the Dreidels?
Thanks so much!
Yes…the Dreidel collection is impressive. I’ll see what I can do about your request.
Steve. I love your photos. I agree with Ben great stuff!
Thanks a lot, Bob! Much appreciated.
I echo Judy’s sentiments – she said it well. I am curious about the hat (cap?) that the lady in the second picture is wearing. Looks very old school.
Yes…well said by Judy, as usual!
And I guess that’s just the hat she decided to wear that day! (I don’t supply props and wardrobes. haha) I like the fashion statement.