Student Showcase: Alina Skolarus B.F.A. Painting

Interviews by Anthony Kosenkov 

Portraits by Maria-Annelise Coello

How did you discover your passion for painting?

Until recently, painting was always something I was good at but never really enjoyed. Throughout the past year though, I’ve learned that channeling my ideas and perfectionism into painting leaves room for an experimental attitude in other mediums. As I’m growing into my Jewish identity I want to create art that reflects my religion and community as well as take time to advocate against antisemitism in all its forms.

How would you say Jewish people are perceived and represented in today’s world and how has this impacted you, both in your personal and professional life?

Antisemitism is rising at an alarming rate. The ADL found that Antisemitic incidents in the US reached an all time high in 2021 and it’s gotten worse since that report was published. Now, I’m not exactly sure where this puts me, and I know many other Jewish Americans feel the same way. The truth is, Jewish people make up only 2.4 percent of the US population and 0.19 percent of the worldwide population. We can’t fight antisemitism on our own so it comes down to who is willing to fight alongside us. We are living in uncertain times and I’m not sure what will come of it.

What do you hope to accomplish with your work? What does your work aim to say? What events or experiences in your life led you to spread this message?

Most of my work at this point in my life ends up as a thank you to Judaism and the Jewish community. It seems like too much of the exposure to Judaism that the average person has is some form of suffering, when our story is so much more. Part of what makes Jewish existence so beautiful is constant perseverance and the desire to turn suffering into strength. Judaism sees learning as a lifelong commitment, encourages diversity of thought and views our relationship with God as a partnership in creation. I’ve heard Rabbi’s say that “the world is being created everyday” and it’s our responsibility to approach each new day with empathy and passion to help others. I hope my work now and in the future captures some of the diversity, joy and strength of the Jewish people.