David Moss Artist Workshop

The Weber School was honored to host renowned artist David Moss for a two-day workshop with students in the Torah, Toolkits, and Power Tools class. This visit, facilitated by Linda Parmet, Hebrew Content Dean and Director of Hebrew Curriculum and Interdisciplinary Jewish Studies, and Alex McIntyre, Assistant Lab Manager & Lab Instructor at the Daniel Zalik Academy, continues the school's enriching partnership with Moss, a collaboration that brings an #OnlyAtWeber blend of textual study and visual art to our students, enriching their connection to Judaism and Jewish texts.

In preparation for Moss's visit, students engaged in an in-depth study of Jerusalem, exploring its historical and spiritual significance through biblical sources, the poem Tourists by Israeli poet Yehuda Amichai, and essays, including a thought-provoking piece by Elie Wiesel. Each student then selected one of Jerusalem's seventy names to delve into, setting the stage for their creative projects.

David Moss brought his expertise in Hebrew calligraphy and paper cutting, sharing his artistic process mirrored in the students' work from textual study to creative expression. The workshop alternated between hands-on art creation and presentations by Moss, showcasing his works that encapsulate the cycle of study, ideation, and artistic realization.

Linda Parmet reflected on the transformative impact of Moss's visit, highlighting its significance for providing diverse pathways into Jewish studies. 'It's remarkable to witness students who may not always connect with traditional text study discover 'aha' moments through this approach,' Parmet Parmet shared. 'Through engaging with art, interpreting texts into shapes and colors, students not only grasp but also internalize these lessons in deeply personal ways, producing beautiful, meaningful work.'

The visit from Moss culminated in a special community-wide presentation where over 50 parents, teachers, and community members gathered for the rare opportunity to hear directly from Moss about his life, work, and mission with an intimate glimpse into his creative process. Moss articulated, "My mission is to enrich Jewish life by synthesizing tradition, beauty, learning, art, and creativity into engaging new forms of expression." Those in attendance were mesmerized by his presentation, which included original works from his illustrious career, such as the hand-illuminated Ketubah, the Passover Haggadah, the Tree of Life Shtender, and the architectural design of buildings.