« Previous | Home | Next »

The Wall of Life sculpture represents the Art Committee's goal to steer away from trendy art and look for lasting, aesthetic pieces, suitable for public spaces and in particular conveying a sense of spirituality.

Created by ceramic artist Karen Gunderman, the Wall of Life was designed to give temple members the opportunity to honor loved ones with engraved leaves that went beyond the usual commercial "Tree of Life" sculptures. The Art Committee contacted the Spertus Museum for recommendations, visited galleries and studios and examined countless slides and photographs. Karen Gunderman, who had a major exhibit on display at the time in Chicago, suggested a wall sculpture with shapes and colors evoking the Jerusalem landscape, with large plaques of wood on either side for bronze leaves to complete the tree image.

Numerous members have purchased engraved leaves to honor a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, birth, wedding, anniversary or birthday. It is a beautiful and meaningful gift. If you would like to mark a special occasion on our Wall of Life, please contact the temple office.

It is our sincere hope that the Wall of Life will not only enhance the beauty of our temple, but will give testimony to the love and joy in our lives and honor those dear to us.