Larry Hauptman and Devon Spier at the Amster Gallery

The Amster Gallery at the Ann Arbor JCC welcomes in another winter season with two special exhibits, the reception taking place on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 6-7:30 pm. Schmooze, have a nosh, and join us for poetry readings and a song circle with Cantor Emma Maier of Temple Beth Emeth while exploring the work of these talented artists. 

Larry Hauptman, Life in and About the Land of Israel

Featured in the Amster Gallery is a collection by talented photographer Larry Hauptman, titled Life in and About the Land of Israel. A local artist, Larry is excited to show more of his work at the JCC! His technical skills were shaped at Washtenaw Community College and further refined through various photography workshops. “For as long as I can remember, photographing people has been a passion of mine,” Larry says. “As camera technology has evolved, it’s become easier to capture authentic, candid moments.”

Larry’s work showcases images of everyday people in Israel, fully engaged in daily life. “Many of my subjects are unaware of the camera, while others notice and choose to interact, introducing a sense of spontaneity,” he states. “Regardless of cultural or socioeconomic differences, people everywhere seem to share a common goal: creating meaningful lives for themselves and their families.”

Devon Spier, 18 Plus One: A Post-October 7th Jewish Life Exhibit

Also featured this winter in the JCC’s Newman Lounge is the deeply impactful 18 Plus One: A Post-October 7th Jewish Life Exhibit by Canadian artist and bestselling poet-author Devon Spier. In October 2024, Devon’s work was displayed as part of Artistic Reflections: Commemorating One Year Since October 7th, a large group show that took place at the JCC. This time, she is proud to present more of her work in the entirety of the lounge space.

Based on the nature of the content, this exhibit is best suited for adult audiences. 

This is Devon’s first collection of text-based canvases, and she is eager to continue exhibiting this project in public spaces across North America to attract Jewish and non-Jewish audiences alike, making meaning together as they re-envision the Jewish future beyond present catastrophe. 

“18 Plus One introduces 19 different worlds to the members of the Jewish community and the general public in order to re-commemorate the events of October 7, 2023, which constitute one of the deadliest mass murders of Jews since the Holocaust,” Devon says. “Through irreverent questions and deep, soulful affirmations, this project enables the public to search their deepest selves and reevaluate their own personal histories in order to create a path of heart toward Jewish and global community safety, truth-telling and belonging.”

Both Larry and Devon’s art are up now in the Amster Gallery and Newman Lounge, respectively, and will be available to view until February 6-7.