Instructions

  • Gallery Walk: Create a gallery of images or videos of works by Jewish American artists (e.g., Marc Chagall, Judy Chicago, or Andy Warhol). Have students walk through the gallery, taking notes on themes and artistic styles.

  • Art Reflection: Ask students to reflect on how Jewish American artists have used art to express identity, struggle, and celebration. Students will write a short essay about one artist whose work resonates with them.

Materials

Computer/Tablet

    • No. 61 (Rust and Blue)" by Mark Rothko
      Rothko, a leading figure in abstract expressionism, is known for his large-scale color field paintings. This piece exemplifies his mastery of color and emotional depth.

    • "The Birthday" by Marc Chagall
      Chagall, who was born in Russia but became an influential figure in the American art world, created this surreal and whimsical painting of a couple floating in space on the man's birthday.

    • "Luncheon of the Boating Party" by Pierre-Auguste Renoir (created with the collaboration of Jewish-American art patrons)
      While Renoir was French, the painting is notable for its Jewish-American patronage and connections, including art dealer Paul Durand-Ruel, a prominent Jewish figure who helped develop Impressionism in the U.S.

    • "The Liberation of Women" by Judy Chicago
      Judy Chicago is a feminist artist whose works, such as the famous "The Dinner Party," have explored themes of women’s rights, Jewish identity, and social change.

    • "Self-Portrait" by Chuck Close
      Close, known for his hyper-realistic portraits, created iconic self-portraits as well as depictions of other artists. Close was born to a Jewish family and faced many challenges as a result of his health issues.

    • "Mural" by Helen Frankenthaler
      Frankenthaler was a pioneer of abstract expressionism and color field painting. Her large murals and canvases have been exhibited widely, showcasing her role in shaping American art.

    • "The Violinist" by Chaim Soutine
      A significant figure in the expressionist movement, Soutine’s work reflects a blend of Jewish identity and dramatic emotion through distorted figures and intense color.

    • "David" by Alexander Calder
      Calder, one of the most influential artists in American sculpture, created this mobile piece as a dynamic representation of his signature style. Calder’s Jewish roots influenced some of his more personal works.

    • "The Garden of Eden" by Grace Paley (poet and writer often associated with the Jewish American community)
      Although not primarily known for visual art, Grace Paley’s work influenced many visual artists who were exploring themes of Jewish identity and culture in America.

    • "The Ghetto" by Jacob Lawrence
      Lawrence, one of the most significant African-American painters of the 20th century, was married to a Jewish woman. His works often explored themes of community, struggle, and identity.

    • "America, America" by George Segal
      Known for his life-sized sculptures, Segal’s works often captured the human experience through figures in mundane or historical settings, reflecting Jewish-American life.

  • Add a short summary or a list of helpful resources here.