Exploring Artistic Interpretations of Purim

Last week, PKI hosted a cultural workshop in celebration of Purim, delving into the Jewish holiday’s rich artistic legacy. Led by artist and art historian Anna Smolyarova, PhD—an expert in art history, researcher at the Hebrew University’s Center for German Studies, and a notable figure in Israel’s cultural scene—the event examined how renowned European painters from various eras depicted key scenes from the Purim story. It spotlighted consistent themes, showed how depictions of Queen Esther evolved, and called attention to overlooked heroines from the story. The workshop revealed how historical context influenced the representation of these powerful narratives on canvas, helping attendees gain a fresh, valuable perspective about Purim and other Jewish holidays.