| | Eldridge Street Synagogue (2010)
New York, New York
Abstract: New Rose Window for the Historic Eldridge Street Synagogue
Collaborators: DG, Kiki Smith, Gianluca Mezzanotte
The Museum at Eldridge Street has commissioned renowned artist Kiki Smith and award-winning architect Deborah Gans to create a new East Window for the 1887 Eldridge Street Synagogue, a magnificent National Historic Landmark locate on New York's Lower East Side. The new East window will replace four tablet-shaped glass-block windows that were introduced in 1944-45 after the original stained-glass was irreparably damaged
and removed. By reintroducing a glorious stained-glass window, the Museum pays tribute to the immigrants who established the Eldridge
Street Synagogue, a grand structure embodying their aspirations and dreams in America. The Museum's commission of a new east window makes for a powerful statement in this historic structure. Kiki Smith and Deborah Gans' design is representative of the 21st century while respectful of the history of this sacred building, its aesthetics, and continuing spiritual quality. Here old
world embraces new. By establishing that continuum the Museum ensures that this historic structure continues to be vital and relevant for new
generations. The commission marks the final significant component of the Museum's 20-year restoration, and it the single mark of the 21st century on this National Historic Landmark. We have used a combination of traditional and cutting edge glass techniques to continue the starry sky painted on the wall and ceilings into the literal void of the 16 foot diameter window to create a celestial veil.
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