Behold, how good it is to dwell together in unity.

Behold, a textile art triptych, incorporates the history and vision of the Staten Island JCC. Reflecting the facets and subtle variegations of the new JCC's Jerusalem stone, it tells the story of a multi-generational community learning and growing within the fabric of its walls, through historical photographs transferred onto fabric. A tree spreading across the triptych depicts strength, growth, rejuvenation and a passage of time. Sports, music, art and a love for our Jewish roots are embedded in this work, as in this community. The artist's inspirations often include Rothko and Rauschenberg, but in this piece, also Chuck Close's large works. The artist draws the viewer in with color and pattern urging us to discover the rich history and nuance within. --October 26, 2006

Our Dead June 21, 2006 (A-E)

This work expresses my exasperation and sadness with the War in Iraq. I hope the viewer catches a glimpse of the sheer numbers of fatalities this war is incurring as well as the endlessness of it. Growing up during the War in Vietnam was different because we spoke about it in school, we saw the tabulation of our injured and dead every night before we went to bed and the country seemed unified in its attention to it. Yes, of course, we were split in our beliefs, but it seemed like we were all involved. This war is creating numerous fatalities as well as thousands of maimed young Americans. Yet we as a nation don't seem aware of it. It feels as if it is happening to someone else. I hope when this work is viewed that people will stop for an instant and reflect and remember that this is indeed our war.

Materials: photo-transfers, cotton, silk Machine pieced and quilted, hand stitched