The Artist's Goal

A ketubah is a work of art; it is as individual as the wedding itself, communicating the bride and groom's personalities, relationship and vision for their wedding day and lives. Even historically, during the 17th and 18th century, Ketubot were always a unique communication. To ensure this, they were highly ornamental and written on hand-made paper or parchment. Many of these artistic techniques have been passed on through the ages and remain today. One of these is the art of illumination, the embellishment of a text with color or gold. In the past, the gold was applied via 22c gold leaf, which gives a majestic quality to the text. Paints were made from organic materials such as plants, flowers and earth which represent the bond between our lives and nature. Even the application, which entailed the artist's very breath, was thought to be highly spiritual and distinct in each endeavor.

This in fact is how I see my art. If a text and its decoration is to be communicative, it must not only look like something, but also feel like something; the viewer must experience that which he sees and the artist must ensure that this occurs.

Calligraphy, too, has its own language and is the voice of the written word. Just as scribes with primitive tools prepared ancient texts and religious manuscripts, transforming biblical texts into beautifully written pages, I honor this tradition and strive to create my own artistic expressions. In working with each couple and getting to know your specific story, we create a work of art together. Two people under the chupah become a family; the artist/calligrapher and the couple also form a special bond, become partners in the expression of the couple's love. Illuminated blessings, too, contribute to the spirit within a couple’s home and are appreciated each day they are looked upon.