The intersections between art and religion weave human nature and history with surprising connections, and what seems far at first glance can be found in our daily lives. This lecture will explore the unique world of performance art and see how it’s intimately connected with religious practice. Then, looking at international and Israeli art examples and Judaism, Islam, and Zen Buddhism, we’ll open our eyes to a new form of expression, beauty, and gratitude that goes beyond words.

Hailing all the way from Tel Aviv, Israel, Shirel Horovitz is serving as the the Jewish Community Foundation Orange County’s newly reimagined WEISSMAN ARTS PROGRAM month-long artist in residence. During her residency, Shirel will explore the art of finding beauty in the mundane through her “Choreography of Gratitude” project. The one-month program will feature two joint gallery exhibitions in Santa Ana and at the Merage JCC, along with an array of workshops, lectures, tours, and a unique community-driven video project.

Shirel Horovitz is a talented artist who uses installations and performances to create deliberate interruptions in daily life, proposing alternative rituals and spaces for reflection. With a BFA from Bezalel Academy of Art and Design and an MA from The Interdisciplinary Art Program in Tel Aviv University, she is a recipient of the Rabinovitch Art Fund Foundation Prize (2018). Her work has been exhibited in galleries, museums, and art festivals in Israel and the US.