In the central synagogue of Kyiv, a gallery of an artist from Ukraine and Israel has opened.

A new art gallery “Fiddler on the Roof” has opened in Kyiv, owned by Ukrainian-Israeli artist Albert-Eliezer Feldman. The venue is located in the historic Brodsky Synagogue, a well-known Jewish building in the capital, where kosher restaurants were previously located. Now this space will be used for artistic purposes, and its doors are open to everyone, regardless of faith.

Feldman, also known as a public figure and doctor of psychology, founded the Golda Meir Institute for the Development of Civil Society. For more than 15 years of living in Kyiv, the artist has been actively involved in creating psychological rehabilitation programs for war victims, while not leaving his painting studio. A member of the Union of Artists of Israel and the National Union of Artists of Ukraine, he presented part of his works in the gallery, including those that were included in the book “You Are Where Your Thoughts Are” — a collection of sayings by Rabbi Nachman.

During the opening, Albert-Eliezer announced plans to create permanent and temporary exhibitions. Visitors will not only be able to enjoy art but also try Jewish desserts such as teiglach and lekach in the kosher pastry shop.

The Chief Rabbi of Ukraine, Moshe Asman, addressed those gathered at the ceremony. He mentioned a portrait of Donald Trump, which was recently presented to the head of the White House. Pastor Mark Burns was also present in the solemn atmosphere, cutting the symbolic ribbon, which attracted the attention of Ukrainian media.

A correspondent asked Feldman several questions about the creation of the gallery. The artist said that the space became available after the restaurant closed during the pandemic, and together with Rabbi Asman, it was decided to use it for an art space that would combine culture and spirituality. Speaking about the future, he expressed hope that in five years the gallery would become a place of attraction for cultural events and workshops.

Albert-Eliezer also does not hide that the project is funded by the synagogue, which ensures free entry without additional costs. In response to a question about his impressions of communicating with Pastor Burns, the artist noted the importance of this event for the further development of the gallery and the transmission of empathy, which can positively affect the situation in Ukraine.

Feldman also showed his painting “The day before,” which he associates with events concerning Israel and Iran. According to him, this work was painted the day before the start of the Israeli operation against Iran, and the title directly reflects the time of its creation. Rabbi Asman perceived the image as a symbolic expression of “kabbalistic rockets” — an image of waves of energy aimed at supporting Israel and Ukraine.

Read more at – NANews Israel News