November 3, 2025
A Day of Jewish Joy at the Skirball Cultural Center
Last week, I experienced a true day of Jewish joy when I visited the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles with my mom and aunt. We enjoyed a delicious lunch in the café before wandering through the exhibits, where every corner seemed to spark a memory or emotion. I could have spent an entire day in the gift shop alone — surrounded by beautiful Judaica that felt both familiar and comforting.
As we walked, my mom and aunt shared their Jewish childhood memories — walking to synagogue on Yom Kippur, my mom’s confirmation ceremony, and stories that stitched together our shared heritage. Together, we reflected on the beauty and resilience of Jewish life.
The exhibits were stunning and deeply meaningful. We explored Jack Kirby’s art, admired a glass sukkah, and paused for reflection in the Holocaust and October 7th memorial sections. One exhibit that especially moved me was The Torn Project by artist Susan Lerner, who transformed the torn-down hostage posters into works of art — one piece for each of the 251 hostages. The effect was powerful and tender, capturing grief, memory, and hope in equal measure.
If you find yourself in Los Angeles, I highly recommend spending a day at the Skirball Cultural Center. It’s a reminder of how art, memory, and family stories keep our Jewish spirit vibrant and alive.
With gratitude,
Heather Friedman Rivera, Ph.D.
President, Kona Beth Shalom
