How to "Plant" a Tree on a Wall

Kudos to Gustav Sculptor and Richard Cawley for their creative metal work. It is spectacular...but don't take my word for it! Come see the tree in the Isaak Foyer at Neveh Shalom!
                                             

It's really heavy!

Richard (L)  Gustav (R)

                                   

                        Richard's Dad to the rescue!

I certainly owe all these guys an apology for capturing their backsides only. 

It Is A Tree of Life!

The tree was mounted yesterday. The leaves were mounted today.

Words fail to adequately express my joy at seeing this project in its final phase. 

Here are the basic tidbits of information.
• it is located in the foyer of the sanctuary at Neveh Shalom
• it is part of the rededication of the foyer in honor of Rabbi Daniel Isaac who retired following 22 years of service to this Portland shul.
• the tree design was created by Gary Pearlman, a talented artist and devoted congregant who helped with the leaf placement today.

• Gary hired Gustav Sculptor and Richard Cawley worked from Gary's drawing and calligraphy.
• I crafted the leaves and operate the glue tube.

I am grateful to my husband Jeff who climbed the ladder today to place the leaves (as directed!)

Shadows and Reflected Light!

The metal tree was attached to the wall today. The leaves will be attached tomorrow.
We put a few leaves on the tree today just to get a sense of the potential ....cool shadows and reflected light!
It's very exciting ....I can hardly wait!

Tomorrow I'll post the the finished project and revel the location!

Chamsah Plate: A Healing Hand

8"x8" sushi style plate. The chamsah (aka Hand of Fatima, Hand of Miriam, Hand of Mary, Hamsah) is a middle east amulet signifying keeping away "the evil eye." It is made from clear dichroic glass and is quite striking in person. This plate is a commissioned piece on its way to California, a 60th birthday present.

Another Sneak Preview!

The letters will be polished to a brilliant reflective silver. The background metal will be dark.

This is part of a large metal ribbon banner that will drape across a beautiful metal Tree of Life. The letters were cut by a water jet just as the leaves were (see older posts).

The calligraphy was done by local Portland artist/hebrew calligrapher Gary Pearlman. 

I wish I could show you more of the project, but some good things are worth the wait.... A full reveal will hopefully occur within a month. Stay tuned!