Curatorial Theme: Tikkun Olam: Repairing the World
The theme of the inaugural iteration of ish: Cincinnati’s Jewish & Israeli Arts & Cultural Festival
is Tikkun Olam: Repairing the World. This concept, defined by “acts of kindness performed
to perfect or repair the world,” resonates with the festival organizers for its relevancy to current
social, political, and cultural events, while its open-ended nature accommodates and elicits
countless artistic reflections and illustrations, from those rooted in religious rites and ceremonies
to more secular interpretations. Artists, performers, and students submitting their work for ish
are strongly encouraged to consider this theme in their applications; however, this is not a
requirement for entry and participation.
Tikkun Olam, while rooted in classical rabbinic teachings, may evoke or allude to broader, more
universal implications in the present day, including, but not limited to: equality, compassion,
empathy, respect, tolerance, humanitarianism, democracy, freedom, and peace. More
specifically, the theme may inspire artists to reflect upon timely and relevant issues faced by our
country and beyond, such as: civil rights and social justice, education, health care, poverty, and
environmentalism. We believe that artists are best equipped to solve the challenges of our
times and heal our world through conceptual and technical innovation.
ish festival encourages creative, interactive responses to the theme that cultivate curiosity and
cultural understanding. Proposals that actively incorporate inclusivity and accessibility for the
enjoyment of all visitors of ish are preferred. Works that respectfully challenge participants to
think critically, ask questions, listen to understand, and embark in meaningful dialogue with
fellow members of the community are welcome.
ish aims to promote an environment of acceptance, exploration, diversity, and fun that embraces, appeals to, and engages people of all ages, abilities, and ethnic, racial, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
The theme of the inaugural iteration of ish: Cincinnati’s Jewish & Israeli Arts & Cultural Festival
is Tikkun Olam: Repairing the World. This concept, defined by “acts of kindness performed
to perfect or repair the world,” resonates with the festival organizers for its relevancy to current
social, political, and cultural events, while its open-ended nature accommodates and elicits
countless artistic reflections and illustrations, from those rooted in religious rites and ceremonies
to more secular interpretations. Artists, performers, and students submitting their work for ish
are strongly encouraged to consider this theme in their applications; however, this is not a
requirement for entry and participation.
Tikkun Olam, while rooted in classical rabbinic teachings, may evoke or allude to broader, more
universal implications in the present day, including, but not limited to: equality, compassion,
empathy, respect, tolerance, humanitarianism, democracy, freedom, and peace. More
specifically, the theme may inspire artists to reflect upon timely and relevant issues faced by our
country and beyond, such as: civil rights and social justice, education, health care, poverty, and
environmentalism. We believe that artists are best equipped to solve the challenges of our
times and heal our world through conceptual and technical innovation.
ish festival encourages creative, interactive responses to the theme that cultivate curiosity and
cultural understanding. Proposals that actively incorporate inclusivity and accessibility for the
enjoyment of all visitors of ish are preferred. Works that respectfully challenge participants to
think critically, ask questions, listen to understand, and embark in meaningful dialogue with
fellow members of the community are welcome.
ish aims to promote an environment of acceptance, exploration, diversity, and fun that embraces, appeals to, and engages people of all ages, abilities, and ethnic, racial, religious, and socioeconomic backgrounds.