Betzalel Gallery Launches Children’s Art Contest

Since its inception over a year ago ago, the Betzalel Gallery has become known as the definitive source for fine Judaic art. The gallery’s distinctiveness is evident both in the stature of its artists and a rare quality, reflecting the richness and warmth of Jewish heritage, that is recognizable in its art.

The goal of Betzalel, said gallery curator, Shmuel Pultman, is to do more than just sell works to other art aficionados. Its aim is to encourage the greater Jewish community to participate in the conversation about, and even in the creation of, great art in the Jewish tradition.

The gallery’s inaugural event featured paintings and watercolors by renowned Jewish artist Itshak Holtz depicting scenes spanning a lifetime of Jewish history and change. Their second show is slated for later this year, and will highlight artist Joel Gluck and his luminescent paintings exploring Jewish life in the streets of Meah Shearim, Jerusalem.

Their most recent campaign shines the spotlight on another type of artist: the smallest ones of our community, with a contest asking for children under 13 to illustrate what Tishrei means to them. “Countless studies have proven how crucial it is to have children involved in the arts,” explains Pultman, “It can boost their confidence and give them a healthy outlet to express their creative energies. Art even helps children perform better in school.”

With camp over and school still two weeks away, Pultman thought this would be the perfect opportunity to launch an art contest that is fun for children and their parents. The prize includes a $250 custom framing job from the gallery, which is also popular for its exquisite handcrafted custom framing work done on the premises.

To enter your child’s artwork, go to www.facebook.com/TheBetzalelGallery , like the page, and post a picture of your child’s Tishrei inspired masterpiece.