Exploring Judaism Through Art at Greenport Synagogue

In Memoriam for Robert Strimban

A group of eight Jewish artists have come together in search of a deeper understanding, insight
and connection to Judaism through their art in a multimedia exhibit entitled WHO ART THOU?
Honoring the late North Fork illustrator/sculptor, Robert Strimban, the show will be on view at
Congregation Tifereth Israel in Greenport from March 25 thru May 20 — with an Opening
Reception on Sunday, March 25 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm; open to the public, all are welcome.

Featuring The Rabbi, a paper sculpture by Strimban, nearly completed for the show at the end
of an illustrious career, this assemblage of sculpture, painting, photography, and quilting
explores spirituality and Judaism through divergent methods. Pondering the transcendence
between life and death, photographer Meryl Spiegel adds another dimension to her imagery by
incorporating spirits drawn by hand, while painter Judith Kaufman Weiner renders the
ascendence of the soul by manipulating spatial environments.

Painters Saul Rosenstreich and Debra Riva both search for spiritual connection—one through
iconic representation, the other through abstract splashes of color. Quilter Roberta Garris seeks
a greater understanding of Judaism through fabric and thread, whereas Cookie Slade connects
to the universe through her nature photography.

Irma Strimban will also be displaying her clay sculpture, Old Woman, alongside her late
husband’s unfinished piece. In 1986, the couple moved from their Chelsea brownstone to
Cutchoque where their home is filled with sculpture. “As the sun moves from east to west,
casting shadows and patterns within the work itself, a new sculpture is created with each
passing hour,” reflected Robert Strimban. He passed away suddenly on December 29, 2017.
Through the guidance of Rabbi Gadi Capela, WHO ART THOU? is a culmination of monthly
presentations, discussions and Judaic interpretations at Congregation Tifereth Israel.
The gallery will be open Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 3pm at 519 Fourth Street,
Greenport, 631-477-0232.