Dining in the Diaspora is a group exhibition about food, tradition and welcoming folks to our literal and proverbial tables.
Throughout 2,000 years of exile, the cuisine and customs of the Jewish diaspora have both influenced and been influenced by the cultures of their neighbors everywhere in the world in an ever-evolving culinary conversation. What happens when tradition meets modernity or when people of different backgrounds and histories come together to share a meal? Across cultures and religious and social groups, the practice of sharing food is central to how folks express love, neighborliness and a sense of pride and excitement sharing and creating new traditions.
The Jewish value of hachnasat orchim is defined as “welcoming the stranger.” This value centers the ethical and social responsibility of hospitality to cultivate spaces that are comfortable for people to come as they are and receive care and often a meal. Food is a universal language.
This exhibition is an opportunity to share stories of food, diaspora and art about the act of welcoming as part of the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island's upcoming Jewish Culture Fest, taking place at the Dwares JCC on Sunday, June 2, 2024. The exhibit will also be featured during the June 20 Providence Gallery Night at the Dwares JCC. It will be curated by Alliance artist-in-residence Zo Baker.
Exhibit submissions are open to artists of all backgrounds and all mediums (except actual edible food).
Submissions are due Monday, April 15, 2024.
REVIEW BEFORE SUBMITTING: Example of submission format
Please reach out to Zo Baker at schmattefactory@gmail.com with any questions.
Timeline:
Monday, April 15: Submissions Due
Wednesday, May 1: Acceptances sent out
May 13-17 and May 19: Artists drop off work at the Dwares JCC
Sunday, June 2: Jewish Culture Festival and Opening
Thursday, June 20: Providence Gallery Night at the Dwares JCC
August 11-16: Work pickup at the Dwares JCC
Applicants are responsible for drop-off and pickup of their work at the Dwares JCC, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence, RI 02906
Submission form: