Art for Prayer and Peace: A Bridge to Oneness

Art for Prayer and Peace: A Bridge to Oneness

Š2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

This proposal provides an artistic perspective on integrating Judaism with Shinto Religion, Buddhism, Japanese Characters, Sanskrit, Hindu, and Hebrew letters in a shared sacred environment / art installation. Christianity, Islam and readings from native cultures are woven throughout. All related information and artwork can be found in the following pages.

CONTENTS

1

Introduction: My Path to This Work; A Spiritual Journey

2

Mission, Artist Statement, Vision and Bio

My Point of Reference: The Holocaust, The Mezuzah and The Hebrew Letter Shin

3-5

Judaism and Shinto Religion

6

Part I, Room 1: Shinto Gate of Intention with Door to the Soul Mezuzah

7

Deeper Connection to the Mezuzah and Islamic Art

8

The Torah, Anicca and the International Language of God

9

One Core Idea: Shin Judaism

10

Shin Torah Crown with Peace Mantle and Shin-heart Clasp

11

Comparative Amida

12-13

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Tikkun Olam - (‫ )תיקון עולם‬and One Thousand Cranes

15

Judaism with Shinto and Shin Buddhism Room 1 Overview

16

Anicca, Shehecheyanu and Staying in the Moment

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

CONTENTS Continued: Part II, Room 2: the World of Sanskrit

17

Sanskrit Fire Temple with Holocaust and Genocide Memorial Space Overview

18

Ner Tamid and Islamic Prayer for Light

19

Comparative Shiva

20

Light/Fire Continued and The Lotus Flower and The Sabbath

21

Mass Atrocity Timeline by Ami Fagin

Part III, Room 3: the Importance of Sound

23

Ohm and the Names of God

24

Singing Bowls, Bells, and Calls to Worship

25

Tzedakah, Sādhaka and Sadaqah

26

Tzedakah, Sādhaka and Sadaqah Continued

27

Giving - Loving Kindness - Loving Nature

28

Exhibition Overview

29

Related Works

30

Conclusion and Exhibition Goals

31

Budget

32-34

Donor List as of May 2017

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©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

Mission:

The ‘Art for Prayer and Peace’ project is based upon the belief: that what unites all religions is greater than what divides them. Its mission is to educate and connect people of all faiths through ritual art and advance peace.

Artist Statement: Inspired by the universality of diverse religious concepts expressed by sounds experienced through travel and study, this collection of spiritual objects in a unified space allows me to impart a deep sense of divinity revealed. My intention in creating this environment is to share Torah and the unique ways it relates to other globally accepted religious wisdoms that seem to be at odds with one another. By sharing and learning from each other, we see our oneness and come together in care of the earth.

Vision:

‘Art for Prayer and Peace’ inspires hope, connectedness, and awe in the advancement of peace.

When I started metal-smithing, it was as if I took the tools out of my back pocket. It felt right. Clearly this was something I was meant to do-- all the time. I was using my grandparents’ story of survival in the Holocaust for a paper in a university class on the Holocaust and Genocide when my grandfather started giving me his tools.

With the help of a wonderful metal arts teacher the idea for my first mezuzahs came into being. They had flames, jail bars, and barbed wire on them; yet they preserved an important Jewish tradition that I was able to share.

In making those pieces and explaining them to the class, I felt the importance of understanding our oneness-we all breathe, we all bleed, we all experience pleasure and pain. Historically, organized religion has not brought us together. Yet, there are tools in each religion that have value to any human regardless of faith. I want to share Torah so that anyone can use its gifts, which I believe will help soften the lines that separate us.

This art is not about converting people to Judaism; this is about understanding that we can all use the vibration of the Torah concurrently with the wisdoms of other religious teachings to raise our resonance, to lift ourselves, to come into peace and harmony with ourselves and the world. The word Israel means: one who has come through a challenging experience while maintaining love in their heart. This is the spirit of the Israel that I envision in the world and the one I wish to share through my art.

Brief Bio: Recently endorsed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Aimee Golant has been voted Best Jewish

Artisan Craftsperson in San Francisco since 2010 by the readers of the “J. Jewish News Weekly.” Some of Aimee Golant’s notable artistic projects include: creating the crown for the Women’s Torah Project, creating mezuzahs for two Space Shuttle missions and for the National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia. Aimee lives in San Francisco with her husband David Casella and son Kaleb.

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

Introduction: My Path to this Work; A Spiritual Journey:

For as long as I can remember I have wanted to feel spiritual belonging within my own Jewish community and among the diverse people around me. Shema, the first and most important line on the mezuzah scroll says to me that we should hear the message that we are all one. I wondered where I could find the truth in these words out in the world. I started with three religions-- Shinto, Shin Buddhism and Hindu as well as two languages-- Japanese and Sanskrit to combine with Judaism and Hebrew as my first forays into revealing the divine unity that resides within these seemingly unrelated teachings. The Abrahamic religious thought (Christianity and Islam), as well as writings from some of the world’s native cultures, are woven throughout.

While traveling through Japan in 2004, I discovered spiritual ideas in Shinto— the Japanese native religion— and Shin Buddhism that work like a hinge with Judaism. This part of the art installation is a collaboration of these schools of thought. Shinto and Judaism share the value of sanctuary, sacred space and intentionality. Buddhism and Judaism both teach lovingkindness. Considering the existence of God while not necessarily believing in God is acceptable within Judaism. Buddhism is non-theistic. Both religions can be practiced without conversion. Buddhism focuses on the changing world, while our Torah is an interpretable text. Buddhism teaches to stay in the moment; Judaism’s special prayer for blessing an exceptional moment in time is Shehecheyanu.

For years I have known about fascinating similarities between Sanskrit words/meanings and core Jewish teachings. Not until a Sanskrit teacher commissioned a copper sign for his fire temple was I able to weave in Sanskrit and Hindu into this worship/meditation environment. Beginning with prayers for fire and light, moving into symbolism around death and transformation, and ending with important teachings of what makes a person holy-- the integration of Sanskrit, Hindu, Judaic and Islamic elements creates a harmony among these differing religions.

In this proposed installation, the above mentioned religious concepts mix in an interactive space. Like a hinge, Judaism provides one set of knuckles while these other religions and languages provide the adjoining knuckles. When put together they open the door to a greater understanding of our oneness and deepen our connection to God. A final room focuses on sound-- chanting, singing bowls, music, various calls to worship, with space for yoga, prayers, offerings and reveling in the natural world.

Where should this work reside?

This work belongs in a space with access to the public, where it will, according to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, fulfill its “potential for contributing to religious harmony and peace.” For the work to be effective, it needs to attract spiritually open-minded seekers, religiously traditional people, and atheists. It should be placed in an area that can create connections across cultures, religions and through time, ignite wonder and provoke meditative and healing thought, while empowering visitors to discover the relevance of this religious art in profoundly personal ways. This work engages the individual in a new potential worship environment that reflects the diversity of spiritual understanding -- a natural progression in our multi-cultural society.

To this end, I share with you how I hope we can combine our visions. ©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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My Point of Reference: This installation is focused on parallels among Judaism, and several world

religions-- not solely on Jewish work. I have included this section to bring understanding of my evolution as an artist.

The Holocaust:




defined as death by fire.

I was twelve years old when I suddenly understood the Holocaust and realized that my maternal grandparents and extended family had suffered tremendously throughout this period in history. The shock and pain were so intense that it felt as though I too was a survivor. As a teen and young adult, the grief transformed into my feeling of deep disappointment and heartbreak in humanity. How could this have happened? How could people do this to each other? My grandparents were so honest, hardworking, sweet and loving. There is no way they deserved such hatred and suffering! I wanted to feel loved, valued and accepted as a Jew by the world around me, but I could not even reconcile my own feelings about being Jewish.

I ultimately developed a feeling that I could not fully trust anyone-- including the Universe or God. Out of questioning God and the discovery of metalsmithing in college, my transformation toward faith and my hope for peace was born. It is that understanding which continues to fuel my passion to make this art.

The Mezuzah: The word mezuzah means doorpost. It is an ancient Jewish tradition to put sacred words --in the form of a very specific scroll-- on our doorposts as a reminder that the home is a sanctuary-- a sacred safe haven. What is written on the scroll is the core teaching in Judaism paired down to one paragraph-- called the Shema and V'ahavta, which are found in the Torah-- in Deuteronomy.

The first of the "Jewish values" hand-written in Hebrew on the parchment scroll are a call to hear (Shema) and understand that we are all one. Then we are instructed in the writings to love kindness, to treat all things with truth and compassion, to care for the earth and everything that dwells upon it, and to teach these values to our children and our children's children. According to the teaching, if we uphold this, peace and justice will prevail and there will be protection for the soul.

Please refer to: http://aimeegolant.com/about/teachings/rituals-for-the-home/mezuzah.html for more detailed information.
 


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The Mezuzah Continued:

My First Mezuzahs - created in 1993

This Untitled Mezuzah (left) -reminiscent of a pregnant woman, was created in 1995. It is now in the permanent collection of the Jewish Museum of New York. It has the inscription: Inspired by my grandparents, these Holocaust themed mezuzahs (above) were my first— displaying barbed wire, flames and jail bars. This is also the first time the Hebrew letter shin appears in my work. Shin traditionally appears on the mezuzah and stands for “Shaddai” the root of which is ‘shad’ which means breast and symbolizes the nurturer.

“I can’t turn my back, the seed has been planted, I am a survivor too.”

The Barbed Wire Mezuzah was later commissioned to accompany the first Israeli astronaut Ilan Ramon on the Columbia Space Shuttle. A replica is in the permanent collection of the Space and Aeronautics Museum in Israel which was constructed in his name.

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The Hebrew Letter Shin:

Like the mezuzah, the Hebrew letter Shin became a fixation in my work. Even my logo is a flame-like stylized shin. The combination of deep spiritual meaning and the shape of the letter greatly inspired me to use it for jewelry and ritual objects that would appeal to a wider audience than just Jewish people.

Shin stands for God on the doorpost - Shaddai: Nurturer and also Protector, some other meanings for the Hebrew shin include: Shalom - Peace, Shema - Hear in your Heart, Shekinah - the Feminine Presence of God.

This Shin Pin, cast in pewter looks like a budding branch.

It was later selected to benefit a breast cancer organization.

Ascendance Mezuzah: commissioned in 2004 exposes the torah scroll and the Hebrew letter Shin. This unconventional mezuzah can be removed from the doorpost (it is affixed with magnets) so it can be handheld and used as art for meditation. It is copper, 22K gold, and silver with a brown diamond.

The Truth Mezuzah (close up) also exposes the Torah scroll and the Hebrew letter shin scribed on the outside of the scroll.

My logo was inspired by this piece. It is silver, 22K gold and charcoal.

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The Torah is often referred to as the tree of life-- one reason it is an important Jewish symbol. The tree above in silver, 14K gold with diamonds has the Hebrew letter shin within its branches.

The Life Source Menorah: silver. Resembles the Hebrew letter shin. The National Museum of American Jewish History selected this piece to be its submission for the White House Hanukkah party in 2010.

Judaism and Shinto Religion:

Among other similarities to Judaism, Shinto deals in the creation of heaven and earth, setting intentions and being chosen to do God’s work.

The Shinto gate is particularly interesting from a Jewish perspective because it is the entryway to temples meant for praying for specific outcomes. The gate marks the border between a mundane space and a holy space. Similarly, the Jewish spiritual practice of affixing a mezuzah to the doorpost sets the intention for a home to be sanctuary.

Each Shinto Shrine is built for a different purpose, such as protection from fire and theft or a stronger love life. While in Japan, I visited the Shinto shrine built for praying for peace on earth. Once inside the Shinto gate or “Torii” a person will commence prayers through bowing, clapping hands and chanting for “seeing the signs” so this outcome will result. Therefore, the Shinto temple is a place for setting intentions through prayer.

Setting intentions is also a strong Jewish value. The concept of Kavana derives from the Talmud, and requires that a person have a consciousness or a religious intention set before performing a good deed-or the outcome will be negatively affected. Kavana is also an indispensable part of actualizing a personally profound, sincere dialogue with God that reflects the motive of the one who prays.

The marked similarities in the concept of creating sanctuary through a gate or doorpost, where intentions are set speaks to an overarching oneness between the teachings-- where Judaism and Shinto concur.

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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Part I

Room 1: The Shinto Gate of Intention With Door to the Soul Mezuzah: Marks the entrance to this installation

‘Kavanah’ The Talmud states that your intentions greatly affect the outcome of your actions.

The Mezuzah sets the intention for a space to be a sanctuary of oneness.

Shinto Gates (Torii) mark the entrance of shrines in Japan where people set their intentions. It separates the holy from the mundane.

This stylized gate (based on the traditional shinto gate design mixed with the “Window to the Soul” motif found on the mezuzah at the right) would mark the entrance of this art installation. It would be 10 feet tall.

The Door to the Soul Mezuzah will be affixed here.

This piece is made in collaboration with Redwood City, CA Artist Eric DuPraw.

There will be writings on the teaching of the mezuzah near the gate.

There will be a quote from Jesus here that is the second line of the mezuzah scroll: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your mind.”

(Matthew 6.31-34 ESV)

9” Door to the Soul Mezuzah: Silver with a copper window

Shinto Gate of Intention with Mezuzah.

Gate: Carved Wood

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Deeper connection to the Mezuzah and Islamic Art:

Once the mezuzah is placed on the doorpost it serves as a reminder of faith, gratitude and to uphold the teaching inside. Collaborative interfaith mezuzah created with Nabeela Sajjad called“In the Name of God” and her “Remembrance” paintings will be on view.

These pieces reside near the gate of intention.

Nabeela Sajjad provided the Arabic calligraphy (left), copper mezuzah master in process (middle), pewter replica with mezuzah scroll showing through the letters (right.) Sales of the replicas benefit Hand in Hand k-12 schools in Israel— Jewish/Arab educational centers.

“Remembrance” paintings by Nabeela Sajjad are translated as: “Glorious is God, and praised is He” “Glorious is God, the Most Great”They are meant to praise and remember God constantly. When things are going well and when they are hard, we keep a connection with God. When we remember God sincerely, God blesses us in multitudes of ways.

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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The Torah, Annica and the International Language of God:

A place to

contemplate the existence of God and learn about the Torah.

Many people do not know what the Torah is. Those who do may know that it is the sacred text of the first five books of Moses, which has been preserved for thousands of years and written down in either in ancient Aramaic or Hebrew by a specially trained Torah scribe. They may know that it is a long scroll that is wound around two wooden rollers containing stories and commandments which teach about life and death. They may know that a portion is chanted each week for a year, then it is rolled back to the beginning and started again. They may also know that it is covered in a cloth dress, called a mantle and a decorative crown is placed on its top handles. And, they are right.

BUT--what people may not know is that the Torah scroll written in Hebrew (which is called a sefer Torah) does not contain any vowels or punctuation, which makes it dynamic, even in its carefully preserved state. Because of the ambiguity in the way the Hebrew is written, the stories or lessons learned from studying it are open for interpretation.

More than anything, Torah is a sound, a vibration and the rest is debatable.

Interestingly, Buddhism not only uses sound vibration as part of its practice-- with the use of singing bowls along with chanting, but it also teaches about the fundamental dynamic and changeable nature of reality. The concept known as anicca in Buddhism, means that impermanence is an incontestable and unavoidable fact of human existence. A popular Buddhist phrase is: “The only constant is change.” The Torah also embodies this way of thinking. Living with Torah means learning to live with change and uncertainty.

In the Shinto tradition, the concept of God/Spirit/Essence (pronounced “sheen”in the Japanese written language) is similar to that of Judaism. Written language has always been used as a way to transmute sounds into writing. The artwork on the next pages is meant to introduce the Torah and the vibration of its teachings to as specific an audience as Japanese Buddhists and to an audience as broad as all spiritual seekers. This installation mixes the Japanese characters for God/Spirits/Essences (Shin) with the Torah-- in the form of a Torah crown-- or the top adornment for the Torah.

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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Core Idea: Shin Judaism:

Arabic Allah Shape of letter akin to Hebrew Shin

Means God

Japanese Kanji - Shin

Hebrew Letter Shin Stands for God on the doorpost.

Heart, Core, Center, Truth

Shaddai - Nurture/ protector Shalom - Peace Sh’ma - Hear in your Heart Shekinah - the Feminine Presence of God

Japanese Kanji for God/Spirits/ Essence Sino-Japanese pronounced: Shin also know as Kami.

God—Spirits or essences of all things in everything Mysterious & Supernatural Everything & Nothing

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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Shin Torah Crowns and Clasp with Peace Mantle: This Torah would reside past the gate of intention within the installation area.

The Japanese characters above, pronounced Shin, mean God/Spirits/ Essences. The definition of God here is similar to that in Judaism: creator of light, Nature, bringer of evolution, everything and nothing, mysterious, and supernatural.

Hebrew is the only language normally associated with the Torah. But the definition of God is the same regardless of the origins of the language. Mixing the languages of God points to our oneness.

The Torah crowns above left are hollow form constructed with the shape of the Japanese characters framed in copper sheet. They are 12”tall each. 23K gold leaf is over the copper in the front of the crowns. The mantle has a bird of peace with the Hebrew - Shin wing — for shalom, peace.

The Torah crowns above will be hollow form constructed in fine silver. The Hebrew letters will be pierced out in negative space.

The interior of the crown will have 23K gold leaf.

This covered Torah will be accompanied by an open Torah scroll so people can view the letters up close and an audio station, so that people can listen to the sound of Torah being chanted in Hebrew.

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The clasp for the torah is constructed in silver, nickel, 22K gold and copper. It depicts another Japanese character Shin that means ‘Heart’ and represents the connection between the heart and the mind.

Comparative Amida(h):

A place of contemplation within the installation space.

The Amidah is the central part to the Jewish prayer service. It is always recited while standing. According to the article, “The Amidah” by Rabbi Daniel Kohn, “The Amidah is the core of every Jewish worship service and is therefore also referred to as HaTefillah or “The Prayer.” Amidah, which literally means, "standing," refers to a series of blessings recited while standing.” The Jewish Amidah “Standing Prayer” has three parts: the first part is about Praise: Avot- Ancestors, G’vurot- G-d’s Power and , K’dushat Hashem - G-d’s Holiness. The second part contains nineteen petitionary prayers for action— among them we ask for, justice, healing, forgiveness and redemption.

The third part is about— gratitude: Avodah - Service, Hoda’ah - grateful acknowledgement, and Birkah Korhanim/Shalomthe priestly blessing and peace. This prayer is so central, that it fulfills the obligation of daily prayer. All the details of this prayer will be displayed so people can ponder the meaning of Amidah.

When I was in Japan, I discovered Shin Buddhism and Amida Buddha. I was interested in the word Amida in a religious context that was Buddhist-- not Jewish. According to the North American Shin Buddhist Association, “....the name Amida is Japanese which is derived from Amitabha (light) and Amitayus (life) of the ancient Sanskrit language, which means ‘Immeasurable Life and Light (Oneness.)’” This Buddha ultimately symbolizes: the humble and dynamic spirit/energy, incomprehensible and ultimate wisdom and compassion. The ‘Nembutsu’(Namo Amida Butsu) is an expression of gratitude of awakening to the boundless wisdom and compassion that embraces us all. Namu Amida Butsu simply means‘I take refuge in immeasurable wisdom and compassion.’ Many other Buddhist traditions recite this chant or expression as a petition to be reborn in Amida’s land of bliss.

Amida Buddha is always depicted in the standing position expressing dynamic Compassion moving toward us, with eyes half-opened showing that part of the vision is directed inwardly for self-reflection, with the right hand held upward representing the Wisdom of Enlightenment and the left hand lowered representing the Compassion of Enlightenment. The Buddha’s palms facing outward and the thumbs and index fingers forming a circle representing the perfection of Wisdom and Compassion.

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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Comparative Amida(h) (continued):

A place of contemplation within the installation space.

The Jewish Amidah “Standing Prayer” has three parts: 1.) Praise 2.)19 Petitionary Prayers 3.) Gratitude

Amida Buddha ultimately symbolizes: the humble and dynamic spirit/energy, incomprehensible and ultimate wisdom and compassion.

The prayer will be handscribed in Hebrew on a large parchment by a specially trained Torah scribe on this tall scroll. It will be accompanied by detailed writings (in English) about “The Amidah” what it means, how it sounds (audio station), and why it is chanted.

There will be detailed writings (in English) describing the meaning and tradition behind this great standing symbol and the ways it is depicted visually.

The Amida Buddha statue is 6.5’ tall and is made of carved teak.

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Annica, Shehecheyanu and Staying in the Moment: Tools for understanding and living with annica the Buddhist concept impermanent reality and the Jewish prayer of gratitude for new moments-- shehecheyanu.

Reflecting on the movement of water, one sees how reality is dynamic and ever changing.

Buddhism encourages individuals to realize the protean nature of reality, while Judaism’s main book - the Torah remains dynamic in its vast array of interpretations.

This part of the installation will have a hand raised copper vessel (around 3’ in diameter) with water inside. This piece is made in collaboration with San Francisco artist, David Casella. A person could observe their reflection in the still water. Periodically the bowl would receive a tap from underneath that will create vibration in the water-exemplifying the illusion of stillness in reality-- showing “annica.” The tap will not commence again until the water is back to being completely still.

There will be an audio station nearby with the Hebrew prayer for new moments “Shehecheyanu” being chanted.

There will be a quote from Jesus on the importance of staying in the moment: “...do not be anxious about about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.” (Matthew 6:31-34 ESV)

The Jewish way is to say a prayer -“Shehecheyanu” meant for showing gratitude to God for new moments.

It is recited at a time of great joy, celebration or accomplishment.

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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Tikkun Olam - (‫ )תיקון עולם‬and One Thousand Cranes: Tikkun Olam is defined as our shared responsibility to heal, repair and transform the world through our actions in this lifetime. This teaching places importance of living in the moment, not in the context of affecting the afterlife. In fact, there is no heaven or hell in Judaism, only the responsibility to leave the world in a better state than when we were born. It is one of the most basic and fundamental teachings within Judaism.

Similarly, there is the powerful Japanese tradition of creating one thousand origami cranes with the specific intention or prayer for healing the world or a person with illness.

This exhibit will have one thousand folded origami cranes in varying sizes. They will be strung on transparent thread-- with some dangling from the ceiling and others affixed to surrounding walls. People will be able to walk through them on their way towards the next room of the exhibit. The colors of the cranes will be off white textured paper, with gold and dark red accents. The initial thousand cranes will be folded by myself and friends with the specific intention and prayers for Tikkun Olam or healing the world.

There will be a folding station and instructions so that people can fold a crane and leave it at the site. They may also write the ways they bring healing to the worldd and have their picture taken for an accompanying slide show.

Slideshow onsite will depict participants and the ways they bring healing to the world.

There will be detailed writings on the concepts of Tikkun Olam and the tradition of folding one thousand paper cranes on the surrounding walls.

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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Judaism with Shinto and Shin Buddhism Room 1 Overview:

This drawing is a

rough sketch giving an idea of what this first room might look like.

Š2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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Part II

Room 2: the World of Sanskrit:

An ancient holy language that is at least 6,000 years old, although many experts believe Sanskrit is between 12,000 and 15,000 years old. Sanskrit is not used for conversation, only in chanting for religious purposes. It is also the language of yoga. Joseph Campbell, renowned mythologist referred to Sanskrit as, "The great spiritual language of the world." One can chant sanskrit while being a devout follower of another religion. Like Buddhism and Judaism being a Yogi (male) or Yogini (female)-- a practitioner of Yoga, meditation, and sanskrit chanting-does not require conversion or relinquishing ones native or chosen religion. They may be practiced concurrently.

According to a scholar of Sanskrit, this is a transformational language. It has the power to heal, to transform the mind from a lower to a higher frequency, and to take you beyond the mind to where pure meditation exists.

The copper sign above translates as “Fire Temple� in Sanskrit. A similar sign with a steel background will mark the entrance of a Sanskrit Fire Temple that will also serve as a memorial space for Holocaust and Genocide. There will be a copper, steel and stone fire pit in the center for burning the traditional cow dung with gee along with a place to sit and chant Sanskrit prayers for gratitude for fire/light. The Hindu God -- Shiva-- bringer of death, destruction and transformation will be within the temple, along with the traditional memorial candles lit on the Jewish tradition of Shiva-- marking the seven days of grief, mourning and transformation after the death of a close family member or loved one. A Barbed Wire Mezuzah and the Ner Tamid -- or eternal light oil lamp in copper and gold.

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Sanskrit Fire Temple with Holocaust and Genocide Memorial Space Overview: Copper oil lamp “Ner Tamid” Symbolizing God’s eternal presence

This Fire Temple will have will have no roof.

It will be used to do the traditional Fire Temple Ceremony in Sanskrit with chants to Shiva-- Hindu god of death, destruction transformation and rebirth. There will be writings on Hindu Shiva and the Hebrew concept of Shiva-marking the seven day period of grieving after the passing of a loved one. There are detailed writings on the Holocaust and the Tibetan Buddhist Genocide. Jewish Yahrzeit memorial candles and an eternal light (ner tamid) are included in the space.

Copper yahrzeit (memorial) candles with Hebrew shin and the Shiva Sanskrit chant pierced out of it

A silver and copper Barbed Wire Mezuzah attached a doorpost

Sanskrit Fire temple space consists of carved and constructed wood. It surrounds a fire pit made of a raised copper bowl over a steel sheet set above rocks.

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Ner Tamid and Islamic Prayer for Light:

The Ner Tamid is translated as “eternal light” or “eternal flame” and symbolizes the infinite presence of God and is lit 24 hours a day seven days a week.

In this space we will include this Islamic passage which offers prayers for God’s light to become all encompassing.

Islam and light: O God, Make Us a Light O God, illuminate our hearts with light, our eyes with light and our ears with light; and let there be light on our right and light on our left.

Let there be light above us and light below us; let there be light in front of us and light behind us.

O God, make us a light.

-- The Prophet’s Prayer

This piece is made in collaboration with San Francisco artist, David Casella. The Ner Tamid would be hand-formed out of copper sheet with 23k gold leaf overlay on the Hebrew letter shin. There will be a place for oil and wick, but an LED light may be used instead of fire.

©2017 http://aimeegolant.com 3931 Alemany Blvd, Suite 2003 -136 San Francisco, CA 94132 415-682-7128 info@aimeegolant.com

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Comparative Shiva:

Hebrew for seven, shiva, marks the Jewish tradition of taking seven days to mourn and grieve the passing of a close loved one. Hindu god Shiva (below right) symbolizes death and transformation. He is considered very powerful and helpful especially in times of great personal or other challenges.

A traditional Hebrew Yahrzeit candle like the one above and a new Yahrzeit candle holder will be created in copper with the sanskrit welcoming the Hindu god Shiva. These candle holders will house the candles that burn 7 consecutive days.

A wooden Shiva sculpture like this one would also be present in the space.

ओं नमः िशवाय om namah Shivaya

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Light/Fire continued and The Lotus Flower and the Sabbath: Meditation and rest are essential components to Jewish, Hindu/Yogi and Buddhist practice. Jews traditionally carve out a 25 hour period from sundown on Friday night to sundown on Saturday night for rest, introspection, prayer and family time. This is called Shabbat-- meaning Sabbath. The beginning of the sabbath is marked by lighting candles and saying a prayer for gratitude for light-- it takes three hours for the candles to burn down. According to the Jewish tradition, taking time for the sabbath will bring good fortune and blessings. It is so important to rest that it is included as one of the ten commandments.

Buddhist, Hindu/Yogi meditation practices include deep breathing, focusing on candle light and chanting are used daily to develop mindfulness in life. They help reduce stress, bring healing, insight and even enlightenment. The lotus flower is a symbol of prosperity, center of consciousness and enlightenment, as it blooms clean and perfect out of mud.

For this installation I will make a one-of-a-kind pair of Lotus Flower Shabbat candle holders in sterling silver with 22K gold wire borders around the petals.

A bronze lotus flower Hanukkiah (traditional Jewish candle holder for the miracle of light) may also be displayed.

These pieces would be placed outside the Fire Temple on the way to room 3-- an area of religious mixing.

Lotus Flower Shabbat Candle Holders: Cast in Pewter created in 2013

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Mass Atrocity Timeline by Ami Fagin:

On the walls outside of the fire temple there will be 4 panels totaling about 13’ created by visual artist Ami Fagin defining and depicting important genocides perpetrated throughout human history. There will be historical and cultural narratives of the atrocities as well as geographical information. Here are some samples of her stunting work.

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Part III

Room 3: The Importance of Sound:

This room is a place of mixing all of the religions in the first two rooms and more. One important theme is the use of sound as a part of prayer, meditation, coming to worship and connecting to God. Just as the chanted Torah is a sacred sound, so too the Buddhist singing bowl is used for its healing vibration. Sanskrit Ohm is a sound created with the human voice to aid in meditation. Church bells and the Islamic call to worship will also be part of this interactive space. See the next few pages with more about the art and ideas for this area of the exhibit.

In Judaism, a shofar (ram’s horn above) is blown to signal the beginning of the spiritual new year.

Three bronze bells by Oakland CA artist Nick DiPhillipo (like the one pictured above) along with a traditional bronze church bell would be displayed in this space. Mallets for hearing the bells of Nick DiPhillipo included.

An open Torah scroll would be present so people can view the letters up close with an audio station, so that people can listen to the sound of Torah being chanted in Hebrew. There would be opportunities for live Torah chanting in this space.

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Ohm and the names of God:

Many religions define God as a supernatural force within everything that is everywhere. Those that do, have different names for God. Interestingly many of the names have the sound “Ahhh” within the name. Ahhh is also the beginning sound when you chant the Sanskrit word Ohm. Below are some of the names of God and their corresponding religions as they relate to the sound Ahhh.

BrAHman - Hindu

Ahhh

AHdoni - Judaism AllAH - Islam

(top of chest)

YAHweh - Christianity

Oooh

BaHA- Baha’i Faith WAHeguru - Sikhism

(solar plexus)

JAH - Rastafarian

Mmmm

SewAH - Wiwa Indian

(pelvic floor)

Pronounced Ahh - Ohh - Mmm this basic sound when chanted with a full breath brings about a physiological relaxation and an important aid to reducing anxiety. The chant begins after a period of deep breathing-- at least five breaths or up to twenty minutes-- through the nose, called the Ujjai breath. As the “Ohm”sound begins it comes from the top of the chest (Ahhh), then the sound moves down the body to the center near the belly button in the solar plexus (Ohhh) and it finishes in the pelvic floor area (Mmmm.) Often chanted at the beginning and end of yoga practice, it is in some ways a call to worship-- a way to align the body with the spirit through sound.

In this area, people will be able to view a large Sanskrit Ohm in vinyl on the wall. They can read about the different names of God that have similar definitions and the Ahhh sound. A 6’ x 8’ sound proof booth and ear muffs are included for exhibition-goers to cover their ears and say “ohm”and observe the sound vibration within their own bodies. There is also an interactive space where people can be lead through a yoga class by a trained master. Sanskrit chanting would be included.

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Singing Bowls, Bells, and Calls to worship:

Singing bowls (also known as 'rin' or suzu gongs in Japan) are a type of bell, called a standing bell. Rather than hanging upside down or attached to a handle, standing bells sit like a bowl, with the bottom on the floor or cushion.

The sides and rim of singing bowls vibrate to produce sound. The sound vibration aids in meditation, relaxation, healthcare, personal well-being and religious practice. Handmade singing bowls in varying diameters would be borrowed from India for the installation space.

An Audio Station: singing bowl music and Buddhist chanting with meditation cushions along with explanations and translations of the chants would be placed nearby. There will be events where the singing bowls would be played live in concert.

The Muezzin is a person who calls the “Adhan” out to let people know it is time to pray. The root of the word is ʾadhina ‫ أ َ ِذ َن‬meaning "to listen, to hear, be informed about". Another derivative of this word is ʾudhun (‫)أُذُن‬, meaning "ear".

This area would have a listening station so people can hear the traditional Islamic call to worship. At times when people gather in this space, the Adhan could be called out before we chant Torah, listen to singing bowls, chant Ohm or do yoga.

Three bronze bells by Oakland CA artist Nick DiPhillipo (like the one pictured above) along with traditional church bells would be displayed in this space. Church bells are used as a call to worship and are rung before ceremonies in the church.

A listening station would be present with various sounds from church bells around the world. At times when people gather in this space the church bells could be rung before we chant Torah, listen to singing bowls, chant Ohm or do yoga.

Related listening stations in this area include: - Gregorian Chants - Gamelan Gong Kebyar

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Tzedakah, Sādhaka and Sadaqah: Often understood as "charity", Tzedakah actually means justice. According to Jewish teaching, with the time and money you give, you help balance the scales for those in need and you fill the world with loving kindness. A person who gives Tzedakah is considered righteous. In fact, the root of the word Tzedakah is "tzadek" which means "righteous or holy person." Sādhaka in Sanskrit describes a person on the path towards God. Sadaquah in Arabic means charity and is also considered a path towards God.

A beautiful stone path with copper spiral frames will be created as a symbolic path towards God.

Traditional Hebrew tzedakah box is a place to put money for the poor. This one created in pewter in 2006.

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Tzedakah, Sādhaka and Sadaqah Continued: Charity/Justice Interactive Exhibit This exhibit will contain the stone path with a giant Tzedakah box at the end of it. The teaching of Tzedakah, Sādhaka and Sadaqah will be included in this exhibit area. People will be invited to write what life tasks or contributions they can give to bring them closer to divinity and put them in a box. A selection of the participants’ writings will be posted and read at different events throughout the exhibition.

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Giving - Loving Kindness - Loving Nature:

I believe that respect, awe and love of the natural world is by far the most powerful and universal connection to God in the universe. In Judaism the Torah is called the “tree of life.” The tree is one of the single most important symbols in Judaism because of the way it symbolizes the cycle of life-- from seed, to the growth of the tree to dropping seeds for new growth, and on and on. Judaism and many religions and especially native cultures are tied into earth and the cosmos intrinsically. This area in the exhibit would have a live tree along with writings about the importance of connecting to and preserving the natural world.

Be kind to everything that lives.

A Native Omaha Proverb

Treat the earth well. It was not given to you by your parents, it was loaned to you by your children.

Kenyan Proverb

We could have a live tree in the space, or situate the exhibition space so that there is a place to go outside an appreciate nature.

Above- Cogi Indian stone carving, for giving offerings to God. There could be a place for contemplation and giving to the natural world. More on this….

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Exhibition Overview:

This complete art installation could be organized in the way displayed below.

Ideally it will be in a combination outdoor and indoor space. In order for the work to be effective, it needs to be placed in an area that will attract atheists, spiritually open minded and religiously traditional people. It is a public space where these diverse people can interact with the work.

Room 2: Sanskrit fire temple and memorial space.

Room 1: Jewish/ Japanese work.

Exhibition goers will enter through the Shinto gate with mezuzah.

Room 3: Room of mixing, sound, yoga, music and more.

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Related works: Women’s Torah Project Torah Crowns, Window Pendant, Amida Mezuzah, and Shin/Shin Amulet

Two sided Shin/Shin amulet (left)

Women’s Torah Project Torah Crowns -copper, 22K gold, Brown diamond

Japanese Characters for God pronounced: Shin.

The sound “shin” means God in Japanese and in Hebrew.

While in Japan, I found it fascinating that many of the religious terms used started with the word ”shin” such as Shin Buddhism, and Shinto.

Creator of Light and Truth Bringer of Evolution Mysterious & Supernatural Everything & Nothing

In Jewish tradition of the mezuzah, the Hebrew letter Shin represents God’s protection.

Window to the Soul Pendant: A new symbol of Oneness for a our time

What I also found interesting was the Jewish and the Japanese definitions of God are similar-- an infinite being, a creator of light.

In the old testament God creates the world through language, when it states.... “and God said, let there be light....”

Amida Mezuzah:

Sh’ma - prayer of oneness

Hebrew Letter Shin Stands for God, on the doorpost.

Shaddai - Protector Shalom - Peace Sh’ma - Hear in your Heart

Amida Buddha - bringer of oneness.

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These similarities are inspiring because they show our oneness through vastly different languages and cultures. Upon realizing this, I was inspired to use the Japanese Characters for Shin (meaning God) as an amulet and also as Torah adornment.

Conclusion and Exhibition Goals:

This exhibit seeks not only to answer questions but raise more questions about God and our oneness. Here are a few key questions to consider:

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What can be gleaned from the similarities among the sounds, languages, religions, and cultural understandings? Coincidence? God? Human nature?

•

Is there evidence of our oneness within differing sounds, rituals, languages and organized religions?

•

How do Shinto, Shin Buddhism, Sanskrit and Hindu relate to the Torah, the Jewish Prayer service and Jewish ritual objects?

•

Do the Japanese characters or Sanskrit belong with Jewish rituals? Why or why not?

•

What are the truths behind The Amida “standing prayer” and Amida Buddha? Are they similar? Different?

What about Hebrew Shiva and Hindu Shiva?

•

What do you think are the intentions of this exhibit?

Please Note: Due to the nature of the artwork presented here, this publication is a draft copy. Changes and edits are a natural process in creating this work. This version may vary from previous copies. January 2017.

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Budget:

This chart shows works already completed and paid for, and those which still need to be created.

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Budget Continued:

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Budget Continued:

This chart shows the estimated overhead costs of the exhibit.

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