Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery
EXHIBITIONS & EVENTS
“Hope” is the Thing with Feathers
Ilze Bebris and Barbara Heller
March 5 – April 14
Barbara Heller and Ilze Bebris explore themes of isolation, survival, and the fragility of life, particularly during difficult times like the pandemic. Both use the feather as a symbol of human experience, though in different ways. For Bebris, the delicate drawings on Arches paper represent the fragility of memory, hope, and connection in moments of isolation. Heller, on the other hand, uses feathers and bones in her tapestries to contrast the violence of loss with the resilience of life, suggesting that hope endures even in despair.
Their different artistic mediums—tapestries and drawings—highlight the range of human expression. Heller’s textured tapestries provide a grounded portrayal of these symbols, while Bebris’ translucent drawings convey a sense of fleeting, fragile beauty. Both works reflect on emotional and psychological challenges during crises, with the possibility of healing and reflection within the art.
The collection of feathers, whether gathered through a quiet walk or as a symbolic act, connects both artists to the world, serving as metaphors for fragility, hope, and endurance in tough times.
Please note that the gallery will be closed for Passover the weekend of April 12 – 13
Illustrations: (L) Ilze Bebris “Ballad of Hope & Desire” | (R) Barbara Heller “We are All the Same – Raw Bones Brown” Tapestry
From War to Hope: Chim’s Photojournalism
April 21 – June 15
Opening Reception & Talk
Thursday, May 1, 6:00pm – 8:00pm
In collaboration with the Festival of Jewish Culture and JCC’s celebration of Jewish Heritage Month.
This compelling exhibition showcases the work of a founder of Magnum Photo, legendary David Seymour – “Chim.” Chim’s 51 photos capture the raw emotions and pivotal moments from war-torn landscapes to stories of resilience and hope. This exhibition, held during the Festival of Jewish Culture, highlights his exceptional storytelling talent while offering a poignant reflection on the human condition by one of the 20th century’s most influential photojournalists.
This exhibit was initiated by Cynthia Young, curator at New York’s International Center of Photography, using vintage prints in their collection. Then the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center produced the 51 modern prints for their showing, which were later presented at the Portland Oregon Jewish Museum and Holocaust Education Center.
Support provided by:
Averbach Foundation
Esther Chetner
Yosef Wosk Family Foundation
The Government of Canada
In partnership with:
Ben Shneiderman
Magnum Photos
International Center of Photography, New York
Jewish Community Centre of Greater Vancouver
Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver
Illustration: Wedding in the Border Regions, Israel (1952)
Pandora’s Collective & Sidney and Gertrude Zack Gallery Presentation
Sponsored by the Yosef Wosk Foundation
Poets will respond with original work inspired by the current art exhibits on display. Please bring paper and pen. There will be an open mic time when the audience will have an opportunity to write and read poems relating to the exhibit.
Free admission.
Tuesday, March 25, 6:30pm – 8:00pm
Featured Poets: Sarah Watters, Rosemary Nowicki, Cynthia Sharp and Daniela Elza
Host: Mary Duffy
UPCOMING DATES:
May 20, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
THE GALLERY IS LOOKING FOR DOCENTS
The Docent Program will be a group of trained volunteers who function as part-time gallery docents. Those interested in being docents will be trained by the Gallery Director in late summer or early fall, and, once trained, will receive a briefing on all exhibits. Docents will average one four-hour shift a week. A docent calendar will be managed by the Gallery Director. Email gallery@jccgv.bc.ca for more information, and to sign up to participate.
STAY IN TOUCH
Please email gallery@jccgv.b.ca for any information, or if you’d like to be on our email list.
COPYRIGHT
Each artist owns the copyright in his/her respective images. These images may not be copied, modified, duplicated or used in any way without the express prior written consent of the artist.