On a recent Sunday, representatives from Grassroots Jewish Women of Connecticut, Greater Hartford for Israel and the Young Israel of West Hartford gathered after the weekly march in support of Israel and for the release of the hostages to eat bagels, view stunning artwork and hear from Captain Roi R., an Israeli artist and IDF veteran, speak about his experiences during his army service.
The sanctuary of Young Israel was transformed into an art gallery showcasing Roi’s work as well as several talented local artists affiliated with the Grassroots group.
Nearly 100 people came out to support the event and the IDF, currently engaged in a multi-front war in the Middle East. Roi spoke about his personal experience on Oct. 7, 2023, when he was called to defend against Hamas terrorists who had infiltrated southern Israel, massacring 1,200 people and kidnapping 250 hostages. He talked about his specific mission at the outset of the war as well as his extensive training to become a soldier.
He spoke about how his art was his therapy during breaks from the fighting. Many of his works envision the topography of the land in which he lives and fought, with earth tones and raised painted surfaces that, when moved from side to side, change color to mimic the sun moving across the sky and causing the color of the land to change.
The event also showcased several local artists connected to the Grassroots Jewish Women of Connecticut, who displayed a wide range of styles and mediums. Sandra Hershon-Weiner’s bright paintings depicted bold flowers, red poppies and golden colors. Sandra Chase presented masterful watercolors and collages. Rachel Sanborn exhibited vividly decorated wooden mandala plates and wall art with Hebrew and English phrases, which could be the centerpiece of any dining room table. Lisa Kassow shared elegant collages that enthralled all who viewed them.
All of the artists donated 50% to 100% of their sales to help support IDF soldiers and their families.
Rabbi Tuvia Brander, the spiritual leader of Young Israel, who graciously opened his synagogue for the event, expressed how pleased he was that Grassroots Jewish Women of CT and the community could come together to help support Israel. “It was truly our privilege to host Roi and showcase his art and the art of the dedicated women of the Grassroots Jewish Women of CT. We are proud that the Young Israel of West Hartford is an anchor of the pro-Israel community across the Greater Hartford region,” he said.
Grassroots Jewish Women of CT organizer Sharon Conway, whose organization had sponsored Roi as a young emissary five years ago, before his military service, was thrilled to have him back in the community. “Roi was a hardworking and dedicated emissary for Israel when he was here. It is now our community’s turn to give back to Israel in the form of supporting the brave IDF soldiers fighting for Israel,” she stated.
Robin Kipnis is a lead activist and founding member of Grassroots Jewish Women of Connecticut.
