Family Activity: Hebrew Calligraphy

In conjunction with the exhibition The Synagogue at Babyn Yar: Turning the Nightmare of Evil into a Shared Dream of Good, join the Koffler for a workshop with Laya Crust to learn about how to write Hebrew in calligraphy!

Hebrew texts have been written for millenia. First on papyrus, then on scrolls, and later in books. Hebrew texts have been the language of use for legal and religious documents, and marriage contracts (ketubot) Hebrew verses and prayers have also been used as decorative art and to embellish synagogue walls. We will take a look at lettering from Eastern European synagogues, particularly at the lettering on the walls of the beautiful synagogue at Babyn Yar. Laya Crust will then teach you to make your own Hebrew alphabet. We will start with basic strokes and go on to form Hebrew letters. Participants can choose to use a variety of colours and add decorations to their letters and words. We’ll finish off by writing our names in Hebrew on bookmarks. Everyone will walk away with one or more bookmarks, and new skills in their pencil cases.

Laya Crust is an internationally recognized artist and soferet (Hebrew for scribe) creating art in a variety of media. Foremost a painter, she also creates hand-made artist books, ceremonial objects, and architectural installations. Calligraphic form is an integral part of Laya’s compositions. Her work has been presented to British royalty and government dignitaries. She recently published a book of art and Bible commentary called ILLUMINATIONS. Ms. Crust’s work is in private collections throughout the world. She keeps a busy international schedule of projects, lectures and workshops. Laya and her husband, Les, live in Toronto where she maintains her studio. For more information, visit www.layacrust.com and www.haftarah-illuminations.com.