From Darkness into Light: Claude Riedel and the Art of the Ner Tamid
January 27 - March 27, 2022
Reception and artist talk:
February 19, 2022 5:30-8:30pm (talk at 6:30)
RSVP required
If reception tickets sell out or you're interested in a private tour, please click here to be put in contact with the artist. Thank you!
From Darkness into Light: Claude Riedel and the Art of the Ner Tamid features a retrospective of artworks by Minneapolis based artist Claude Riedel. Riedel is recognized internationally for crafting Ner Tamids, or “eternal light'', the essential piece that hangs above the ark in synagogues. The powerful symbol of the eternal light resonates immensely with Riedel, honoring his Jewish heritage and family history of German immigrant Holocaust surviors. For 25 years, Riedel has been creating Ner Tamids, incorporating elements of stained glass, blown glass, found objects, metalwork and cast bronze.The intricate designs are rich with Judaic symbolism such as the Tree of Life, the Burning Bush and the Star of David. Riedel collaborates with glass artisans and metal workers to craft these singular awe-inspiring pieces to specially fit each architectural setting. His work is found in over 175 congregations large and small across the globe. When used in ceremony, Riedel’s extraordinary Ner Tamids behold the light on the eternal flame, “I seek a radiant purity of light which inspires and calms the spirit of the worshipper”.
Artist Statement:
Creating Ner Tamids, the eternal light which graces the Bimah and all congregants in the sanctuary, is a personal journey for me. The opportunity to create meaningful pieces of ceremonial art for synagogues across the country allows me to honor my Jewish heritage. As a member of a family that includes survivors of the German Holocaust there is no more powerful symbol than the Eternal Light.
“It belongs in this place.” Such sentiments should greet the unveiling of a Ner Tamid, as witnesses experience the richness of a profound coordination between the certainty of matter and the spirit of illumination. The light of God radiates from the Ner Tamid and blesses all it touches. My Ner Tamids marry timeless, ancient traditions with modern sensibilities. I seek to render the essence of my clients vision with sensitivity and fine craftsmanship appropriate to the architectural setting. A recent client wrote, “Your work emanates an aura of spirituality.”
My pieces combine traditional forms with evocative blown glass. I seek a radiant purity of light which inspires and calms the spirit of the worshipper. The use of a soft, translucent pallet of colors allows individuals to focus on prayer yet there are hidden jewels within each piece representing the multiple strengths within Judaism. Each piece is unique, finely crafted, entirely hand made and designed to fit the architectural setting. I enjoy the collaborative process, both for what it symbolizes and for the inspiration it provides.