On October 19th 2016, the Friendship Circle of Central Jerusalem added another feather into their cap at a magical, memorable evening.
For 6 intense months prior to it, FCCJ recruited seven generous renowned Jerusalem Artists; Andi Arnovitz, Solomon Souza, Hadassa Berry, Sara Mannheim, Louis Sakolovsky, David Moss and Zion Asoulin, who all joined The Art of Friendship Initiative, hand and heart, giving of their time and talent. They mentored FC children with help from their volunteers, and the young artists created special masterpieces.
Six months later, on the second night of Chol Hamoed Succot, the old Templar houses (now renamed Beit Chassid), on Emek Refaim street, belonging to the “Chassid” brothers, were graciously turned into the most exquisite art gallery. Sharon and Inbal Chassid enabled FC to host their first ever Gala and Auction, celebrating works of art showcasing talent and creativity. A number of kind donors banded together to help create the AOF Gala.
Naomi, one of the guests commented, “I didn’t dream I would actually attend an event dedicated to such a cause and find it so classy! It was not typical of a regular charity event.”
Each child’s artwork was thoughtfully placed with the help of their curator, Rafi Marrache, Director of the Marrache Fine Art Gallery and Vera Rosen. Board Members led tirelessly by Bernice Fogel, Vera Rosen, Program coordinator Sima Farkas and Volunteers worked tirelessly through the weeks and nights to prepare for this momentous occasion.
Over 400 guests attended from all walks of life and all corners of the world, to show their appreciation and pride in the achievements of the children. With the high end music played by Menachem Klein and cellist Yonatan Niv, the energy at Beit Hassid was palpable, Guests were able to mingle and meet with the FC artists and artist mentors while admiring the works of art,, discussing which pieces they hoped to hang in their homes. Delicious cocktails and appetizers were served.
The program commenced with the appearance of Ephraim Rybak, a young FC volunteer, whose golden voice enthralled the audience as he happily celebrated his Bar Mitzvah “Bo Ba’yom”, at this special event. Joining him was volunteer Chaim Zippel, together with Ariella and Jordanna, two FC children who delighted the audience with more music playing and singing.
Chanie Canterman, devoted director of Friendship Circle Jerusalem, used her charismatic panache to create a contagious atmosphere to set the tone for the auction that followed. She thanked FC Founders Levi and Bassie Shemtov and Brooklyn and Philly FC directors- Berel and Chanie Majeski, artist Esti Schneerson and Zev and Chanie Baram, for selflessly giving and sharing their ideas and experience, to help FC Central Jerusalem establish their own AOF success.
In a Sukka built specifically for this event, the children enjoyed arts and crafts and other fun activities. Nearly one hundred pieces of art were displayed and during the evening over half of them were sold.
Experienced auctioneer, Raphael Sait, created a charge in the air when he led the bidding at the very successful auction. Honored guest, Rami Levy- Supermarket owner of R.L Shivuk Hashikma joined in with his well-known generosity, returning home with ten of his own paintings.
The look on the faces of the children as their paintings were sold off the walls, was one of sheer pride and accomplishment, something they don’t often feel, but experienced through this event.
An additional surprise followed: Solomon Souza, one of the Artist Mentors ( the latest, much sought after, Jerusalem graffiti artist), volunteered to do a painting on the spot that was eventually auctioned off as the final piece of the evening. Donors, Robert and Olamit Henoch are now the proud owners of his beautiful work of art.
Calendars and exquisite ‘Limited Edition’ Coffee Table Books – replete with a letter from the Mayor of Jerusalem and with pages displaying the artwork and thoughts from the FC artists, were sold.
“Happy art deserves a happy home,” FC staff announced at the close of the auction. “All remaining artwork will be donated to brighten children’s wards at Hadassah and Sharei Zedek hospitals.”
Anyone wishing to purchase a coffee table book or a piece of art and donate it to this cause as a ‘Friend of the Friendship Circle’, is welcome to visit facebook at Friendship Circle of Central Jerusalem.
Wowow!! Kol hakovod!!
What a stunning event, so brilliantly thought out and beautifully presented in such a smooth and classy way!
May it be a real peulah nimsheches!
Wishing you much Hatzlocha for many more years to come, of successful events.
Wow sis you outdid yourself in this chesed of a lifetime you are truly an example of a selfless Shelucha, may you go from strength to strength
I enjoyed this event so much! The smiles on the children’s faces is just priceless! Kol Hokovod for all the work you do!
Chana’le you really outdid yourself once again! Hashem should bentch you that you should be able to continue to do many many more programs like this in the future!
Chani I am so happy for you . you work so hard and it is
such a good cause . kol hakovod
Even though your picture sold for over $400, to me: your smile is priceless!!!
Love, uncle Chaim
Doing great work as usual chanale!
love from your ever so proud friend ,
Dena x
What a beautiful way to do this chesed. I’m truly moved. Yashar koach!