Shimon Peres, the former President and Prime Minister of Israel, once remarked,
"Optimists and pessimists die the exact same death, but they live very different lives!"
Artist Statement
During these trying times in our country and global community, I am compelled to find the hope and optimism that carry me through the days. This outlook reminds me that while we all share the same fate in death, the quality and richness of our lives are deeply shaped by our perspective.
As Shimon Peres eloquently expressed in a 2005 interview with Newsweek Europe, "Optimists and pessimists die the same way. They just live differently. I prefer to live as an optimist." His words resonate profoundly with my work and life, underscoring the transformative power of optimism. By choosing hope over despair, I aim to create art that uplifts, inspires, and affirms the resilience of the human spirit.
In embracing this philosophy, my art becomes a testament to the belief that optimism is not just a personal choice but a powerful force for building a more fulfilling and constructive life—both individually and collectively.
In 2015, I had the profound honor of meeting Shimon Peres when President Obama presented him with one of my hand-sculpted Seder plates. Sharing laughter with such an iconic figure of hope and peace was unforgettable.
