As you sure know, Israel is going through a very difficult period. Aside from the obvious security issues, the tourist industry has been hit very hard. Tourists are almost not coming. Few years ago, in an effort to overcome these new difficulties, we began to organize a group of artists, friends from Israel, to show our work in the US. We have since developed into a cohesive group of professional artists representing a wide spectrum of media including: painting, silver Judaica, jewelry, and hand made Talitot. We travel together all throughout the States exhibiting mainly in synagogues, but also in JCC's, at Federation events and in Jewish schools. Thus far we have exhibited in many shows all over America. Some shows have been hosted by very large communities, while others were held in more remote areas with a much smaller Jewish population. In every case we have been wonderfully received, and the exhibitions have been successful and lucrative both for us and the hosting community.
Allow us to describe briefly how this works: The shows are held on a Sunday, usually from around 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We generally prefer to arrange for an opening on the previous Saturday evening after Shabbat. This occasion can be utilized to gather together a select group of community members by special invitation who are privileged to a sneak preview. In our experience offering refreshments at the opening greatly enhances the occasion. As for the details: 15%-20% of the income from the show goes to the synagogue or hosting party. Thus, a successful show for us can be a considerable source of income for the community. Customers at the show pay the synagogue directly. At the end of the show each artist receives a check for the precise amount he or she sold minus the 15%-20% which goes to the community. In this manner we insure that everyone is happy. The clients' purchases become tax deductible. The community assures that the affair is managed properly, and the members of our group enjoy the convenience of working directly with the community itself. Here are a few additional aspects of our shows: The members of our group pay their own transportation to the event. Often the community will arrange to have us picked up from the nearest airport, train station, etc. We ask that our group members be given home hospitality by families from the community. This serves to help reduce the rather considerable expense of the shows for us. It also strengthens our bond with the community, which is something we value. Normally each hosting family will take in one or two artists. In the interest of all parties it is vital that there be good advertising. This can include invitations, posters, e-mail announcements, newspaper adds, etc.
If the idea of hosting our group in an exhibition appeals to you we will be happy to supply you with additional information including a list of some of the communities in which we held shows, as well as a description of each artist's work accompanied by photos. We can then look into the question of scheduling. WeI look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Ilan Hasson & Avi Biran
