“In an era with no shortage of newly invented Jewish ritual practices, Passover has inspired more innovation than just about any other holiday. This can be seen right on the seder plate, which has been serving up traditions, the old alongside the new, for generations. And if Passover innovators have been rabbis, scholars, poets, and everyday folks, they are also often artists, such as those who have created the seder plates commissioned for this Invitational exhibition. In this capacity, they respond to and catalyze a reinvented Judaism. Through their fresh visions, expressing beliefs and yearnings, memories and dreams, they keep us from observing Passover solely for the sake of nostalgia.”
— Prof. Vanessa L. Ochs, from her essay in the exhibition catalogue New Works/Old Story: 80 Artists at the Passover Table.
The following images are seder plates created for the Contemporary Jewish Museum‘s exhibition New Works/Old Story: 80 Artists at the Passover Table.
