The Shalva art exhibition features works by Israelis with disabilities – Israel Culture

For the first time in the United States, an art exhibition highlighting the experiences of Israeli people with disabilities coping with the trauma of war will be presented.

The Shalva art exhibition was curated to offer visitors a glimpse into the resilience and hardships Israelis have faced since October 7, 2023.

After being shown in several countries such as Korea, Hong Kong, Sweden, Israel and England, the exhibition is currently in the United States at Congregation Beth Yeshurun in Houston.

In the weeks following the war, Shalva’s art therapy team worked with teenagers and adults with disabilities to help them process and express their emotions in response to the traumatic events.

This program included regular Shalva participants and welcomed people with disabilities from evacuated communities in Israel.

Shalva Art Exhibition in Houston (Source: Courtesy)

Together they created artworks that show how people with disabilities from different parts of Israeli society experience the effects of war.

Stories of strength and unity

Kalman, President and Founder of Shalva, said: “Art is a language that transcends words. Through this exhibition, we share not only the stories of pain, but also the stories of strength, unity and hope that hold us together as people. We hope that the people of Houston feel this connection and understand the reality of life in Israel during these challenging times.”

Rabbi Brian Strauss also emphasized the importance of the exhibition to the local community: “Through this art exhibition, members of all ages have come to learn more about the incredible work of Shalva. We now have a unique perspective on the trauma suffered by all sectors of Israeli society since October 7, 2023. It is our great honor to share this experience with the entire Houston community throughout November.”

Located in Houston, Congregation Beth Yeshurun is the largest Conservative synagogue in Texas.

Richard Kammerman and Judy Blake, members of the synagogue’s inclusion committee, believe the Shalva art exhibition is an opportunity to deepen the community’s understanding and improve its approach to inclusive practices.