JFGA Hosts “RussianArt...andMORE”

Russian Art Event Brings Community Together

By David Cohen | Managing Editor AJT

A gathering of artists at Congregation Or Hadash on Sunday afternoon brought members of the Atlanta Jewish community together.

Art from Anya Laur

The Event was put together by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and showcased local Russian-Jewish artists Sasha Khodorksky, Yulia Jeltuhin, Marina Zalmanova and Anya Laur. All four featured artists live in Atlanta and are originally from Russia. The Judaic inspired art available for purchase included mosaic plates, jewelry and vases as well as children’s toys like the classic babushka doll.

“We helped put on this event to showcase local Russian Jews that most folks don’t know.” Said Sherry Frank, of the Jewish Federation. “It’s just interesting to see folks from other countries that the Jewish Federation has helped settle and see where they are today. I think if more Atlantans knew about them they would want to support and buy their crafts.”

The first event of its kind, “RussianART…andMORE” was well attended by members of the community. Among those who helped to put together the event were Sherry Frank, Merle Horwitz, Claire D’Agostino and Meredith Lefkoff. Artist Sasha Khodorksky, helped to bring the artists together for the show.

All four artists featured in the showcase originally came to Atlanta with the assistance of The Jewish Federation of Atlanta and members of the local community. The Jewish Federation still regularly assists Jews in need across the Former Soviet Union.

Art from Sasha Khodorksky

“25 years ago I came here with two suitcases and 200 dollars.” Featured artist Sasha Khodorksky said, “I have a lot of thanks to say to the Atlanta Jewish community, who welcomed us with warm hands, we came from a cold country and immediately were welcomed by the people here.”

“We need to be a little closer as a community.” She added, “Maybe art will get us there.”

For more information on the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta and their community events visit www.jewishatlanta.org.