This month, The Cape Jewish Chronicle features the work of Israeli artist Taryn Treisman, with a striking piece by her on our cover.
The work includes various allusions to the aftermath of the October 7th attacks, which The Chronicle memorialises through our cover image.
Born in Johannesburg, but with strong family connections to Cape Town, Taryn has exhibited regularly at the You and I Art Gallery in Sea Point.
Having made Aliyah in 2021, after living in Chicago for several years, Taryn explains that, “Since moving to Israel, my art has changed a great deal. It’s grown in particular because of the experience of the pain of October 7th. Am Yisrael experienced a collective pain, but I pray that one day we will dance again and experience collective joy.”
In addition to the trauma of October 7th, Taryn has had to come to terms with the anguish of surviving the Tsunami of 2004. “I have experienced trauma on many levels. I have experienced difficult moments, each moment a matter of life or death. These moments collectively put everything into perspective, and this is a theme in some of my work,” she explains.
Our cover image – a detail from a Taryn Treisman artwork (pictured below), which is made of aluminium with acrylic, puff paint, and sized 90cm by 90cm – reflects Taryn’s love for Israel and the joy and blessings found in the country. Elements included in the piece are: the word Todah (highlighting Taryn’s gratitude for being able to enjoy life); Chai (a celebration of life); Emet (truth); and Ahava (love). So, the work is an image of love, hope and joy.
In addition, the painting is full of flowers, highlighting Taryn’s belief in the power of blooms to brighten a room – or even a heart. “My goal is to turn darkness into light, to find the beauty hiding in pain. I believe life is all about perspective, and I choose to see the good and to feel the joy.”
Featured in galleries across South Africa, America, and Israel, Taryn’s work has gained international recognition. Collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide cherish her pieces for their modern flair, emotional resonance, and celebration of Jewish heritage. ●
Follow Taryn’s artistic journey via her Instagram page: @taryntreisman1 or visit her website: http://www.custompop.art.
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