PopUp Exhibition: Ira Fink on El Lissitzky’s Had Gadya: Context and Meaning

Alongside a distinguished career in college and university planning, Ira Fink has assembled a significant research collection of books on synagogue architecture and Jewish ceremonial art. A graduate of UC Berkeley’s College of Environmental Design and a Fellow of the American Institute of Architects, Dr. Fink’s family collection includes one of the few surviving sets of the eleven lithographs of the famous Had Gadya, the Passover song illustrated in 1919 by the Russian Avant Garde artist, typographer and designer El Lissitzky (1890-1941). This wonderful set was produced in only 75 copies, many of which are believed to have been destroyed during the Soviet era. In his presentation about Had Gadya, Dr. Fink will share with the audience what he has learned about the cultural context of the work and its embedded meanings and symbols.

Each week, UC Berkeley faculty and graduate students, visiting artists and other notable guests will present brief lectures focused on selected treasures from the The Magnes Collection of Jewish Art and Life. One speaker and one object at a time, these “flash” exhibitions will include the opportunity to view the art and artifacts discussed intimately and up close.

Bring your own lunch, enjoy complimentary refreshments, and take part in an exciting learning program, free and open to the public. Close-up view of collections included.

SPRING 2017 SCHEDULE
February 15, 22; March 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; April 5, 19, 26

No lecture on April 12 (Passover)

Check The Magnes calendar and Facebook page for updates