Encompassing Sukkot—Collected Memories

This 3-D collage-in-a-box concept is homage to the artist Joseph Cornell who single-handedly created this quirky
art form in the 1930’s through 1950’s.

This is a collection of Sukkot memories which have been reinterpreted in a three-dimensional format—sometimes literally, sometimes evocatively. Each memory has a distinct space of its own, but bound together they form a collage of memories. And each memory has an author who is acknowledged in a booklet attached to the panel. This crib-sheet is for those who may want help understanding the images.

The viewer is an active participant. Can these varied memories encompassed within a frame bring visions of the harvest holiday Sukkot to mind? Does it matter or detract from the experience if a few images are unusual or unfamiliar? And what of the viewers who have no memories of this holiday—can they make something of this collage of images that is all their own?

All sailors are taught to “box the compass.” They must be able to name and locate 32 points on the compass. On Sukkot, Jews shake the palm branches (lulav) in six directions (a symbol of God presence everywhere) and they need to know where east is in order to direct their prayers toward Jerusalem. Therefore, a working compass is included to help orient the viewer and to “Encompass Sukkot.”

 

 


   
  See Details for close ups & text of memories.  
  Sukkot Panel  
 

Multi-media. Wood frame, found objects, dried plants, paper, fabric, and balsa wood
24 inches x 48 inches x 3.5 inches
Photography by Penny Leveritt

 
 

See Details for close ups & text of memories.