ART AT WAR—THE ARTISTS VOICE

Celebrated Manhattan mixed media artist, Bara Sapir ( www.barasapir.com ), is one of five New York City artists chosen to participate in a September 11 retrospective "Art at War—The Artists Voice" to be held at The Aldo Castillo Gallery, 233 West Huron, Chicago (phone 312-337-2536). This exhibition is inspired by contemporary issues surrounding the causes and consequences of conflict and aggression with artists addressing the current war in Iraq as well as the history of war as it relates to the human condition. Each artist visually expresses their feelings and views through a variety of mediums including personal statements and poetry.

"Artists at War—The Artists Voice" represents artists worldwide, and is open from September 11 to October 16, 2004 to the general public. Ms. Sapir's powerful and moving multi-media piece, "9/11,' juxtaposes plastic toy soldiers spilling out from an antique ornate chair back with plastic, twine and motherboard parts to create an inverted three-dimensional homage to other war scenes depicted throughout western art history. The work is distinguished from others, however in that it doesn't glorify the victorious. Instead, it mirrors the descent and infusion of a military presence while suggesting the imperial interests which are among the impetus responsible for the September tragedy.

Ms. Sapir says, "My reaction to 9/11 is to express my pain and anger through art. My work typically centers around Judaic or mystical themes, but here, I feel a certain ownership because as a New Yorker I have permission, and unfortunately a closeness, to reflect on this universal tragedy in a deeper, and more visceral way. It is important, and gratifying, that my approach continues to feel relevant with the hindsight of the last three years and the most recent implications and controversy surrounding our current administration."

In tandem with the exhibition, Bara Sapir, MA will be artist in residence at the Bernard Weiner JCC in Northbrook, IL and conduct an artist workshop which focuses on artistic expression and biblical themes on Wednesday September 8 at 1 PM. For more information call 847-205-9480.


ABOUT BARA SAPIR:

Bara Sapir's work is fueled by the dynamic interface between creative expression and Judaism. Her work is expansive and accessible, providing invitation and access to the personal 'divine'. She is art editor for the journal Zeek: A Journal of Jewish Thought and Culture (www.zeek.net ), is an adjunct faculty member at Montclair State University, teaches nationally and internationally, designs interactive exhibits for children's museums and is a certified hypnotherapist. Presently a graduate student in Education, Sapir holds a Masters degree in Art History as well as a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, both from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor.