These Chaldean and Jewish
artists were among the 21 local
artists included in "Roots" at
the Birmingham Bloomfield Art
Center.
An exploration of art by Jewish and Chaldean artists.
Keri Guten Cohen J JN Story Development Editor
Jerry Zolynsky Photographer
Close to 250 patrons enjoyed the opening
of "Roots," an exhibition featuring works
of art in all media by Chaldean and Jewish
artists on July 12 at the Birmingham
Bloomfield Art Center in Birmingham.
Pieces by 21 local artists representing both com-
munities filled the gallery and gave viewers much
to see and talk about.
The artists stayed close to their work to answer
questions and talk about what motivates them. In
many instances, it was difficult to tell whether a
Jewish or Chaldean artist created the art.
"I was a little skeptical at first, but now I'm here
I'm pleasantly surprised:' said artist Faina Lerman
of Hamtramck. "I've never seen these kinds of
works shown together."
Although paintings dominated the walls, work
also included sculpture, photography, textiles, mul-
timedia, book and performance art.
Artists spanned the spectrum from well estab-
lished to emerging, with works from traditional to
conceptual, which kept viewers moving from sur-
prise to surprise.
Reni Stephan of Sterling Heights drew a crowd
around his marble and hydrostone chess set with
elaborate Mesopotamian figures.
"The exhibition is a beautiful idea and a great,
great cause he said.
"I think it's great seeing the two communities
come together; many have never been in a room
together;' said Mira Burack, exhibition co-chair
with Dr. Sulafa Roumayah, who both had work in
the show.
"I definitely think we were successful in the
whole idea of honoring each community from
a cultural place and tradition. It was a different
premise for an art exhibition:'
"Roots" was a three-day show that ended July 14.
In three years, the Arts & Culture Workgroup
also has sponsored architectural tours in both
communities and a food-tasting event.
Expect more from committee members Sharon
Alterman, Mira Burack, Stephen Goldman, Mark
Kassa, co-chair Barbara Krachtman, Mark Lit, co-
chair Mary Romaya, Dr. Sulafa Roumayah, Michele
Saroki and Firyal Yono. BC
Reni Stephan of Sterling Heights with his Mesopotamian marble
and hydrostone chess set
46
August 2 . 2012
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