Public Art Details
Tikkun
Artist: Ilene Berman
Region: Central West End
Location: Ward 28 - Central Reform Congregation
Address: 5020 Waterman Blvd, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Dimensions: 5' x 9' x 9'
Year completed: 2004
Material: Clay shards
Owner: Central Reform Congregation
Description:
Tikkun (Hebrew for repair) was conceived and created by Central Reform Congregation member Ilene Berman. Its form is based on the Jewish mystical story of creation about the shattering of vessels, the gathering of hidden sparks, and the repair of the world. The “Shema”—the holiest Jewish prayer--is written inside. The largest opening is facing the First Unitarian Church. A path, comprised from clay pieces decorated by the community, leads from the sanctuary to the vessel. The clay pieces represent shards from the shattered vessel. CRC and community members took part in creating the art by decorating, etching or hand printing the clay pieces. The sculpture is a reminder for the CRC members to do the work of Tikkun Olam.
The Central Reform Congregation building on Waterman Blvd was built in 2000. In May 2004, the Tikkun sculpture was officially dedicated and installed on the corner of Kingshighway and Waterman.
