Join acclaimed artist and bestselling cookbook author Erin Gleeson for a unique exploration of creativity, food, and community. Known for her vibrant watercolor illustrations and beautifully crafted cookbooks, Erin will inspire us to see gathering, cooking, and Shabbat through an artistic lens as we create, learn, and celebrate together. This event is open to the community. If you have questions, please reach out to Rabbi Sarah Tasman.
Early bird registration: register Aug 20-Sept 24 to receive a discount for signing up early!
Thursday, October 22, 6:30 PM
Wine & Watercolor: At the Autumn Table: Inspired by the Seven Species with Visiting Artist & Cookbook Author, Erin Gleeson
Inspired by the rich symbolism of the autumn harvest in Jewish tradition, join Erin Gleeson for a beginner-friendly watercolor workshop celebrating food, creativity, and community. Together, we’ll paint tablecloths and decorations for the following evening’s shabbat dinner inspired by the Seven Species — including pomegranates, figs, and olives — while enjoying seasonal drinks and appetizers featuring those same flavors. Through watercolor, conversation, and gathering around the table, participants will explore how creativity can be both meditative and communal. Don’t drink? We’ll also be serving n/a rosé as well as have an assortment of other beverages on hand.
Friday, October 23, 5:00 PM
Preparing an Artful Shabbat Table: Art & Cooking Class with Visiting Artist & Cookbook Author, Erin Gleeson
Join Erin Gleeson for an interactive vegetarian cooking class inspired by her Forest Feast cookbooks. Together, participants will create edible and artistic details for the communal Shabbat table. Stations will be prepared before guests arrive and small groups can work together, with Erin’s guidance to create 2 menu items that we’ll enjoy at Shabbat dinner.
- Butternut Pomegranate Caprese
- Figs with Goat Cheese and Peppered Honey
We will also paint candles to be used during the Shabbat dinner along with other table elements to enhance the meal including buffet cards, blessing cards and a menu.
Friday, October 23, 7:45 PM
Shabbat Dinner & Author Talk: Join us for a special Shabbat dinner featuring recipes and table decorations from Visiting Artist & Cookbook Author, Erin Gleeson’s cookbook series, The Forest Feast! Following Shabbat services, guests are invited to gather for a seasonal communal dinner and conversation with Erin Gleeson exploring the connections between food, creativity, ritual, and community related to Shabbat gatherings. Through a 30-minute slideshow presentation, Erin will share her journey from New York food photographer to cookbook author and watercolor illustrator, reflecting on how meals, seasonal traditions, hospitality, and the beauty of the table can create meaningful moments of connection. Drawing inspiration from Shabbat and Jewish traditions of gathering, the evening will explore how creativity — whether through cooking, painting, or sharing a meal — can transform ordinary experiences into sacred ones. Signed books will be included in registration fee.
