#United States #New York #Elie Wiesel #Mark Podwal #Jewish Art

Mark Podwal Prize Winners Announced for 2026

The Elie Wiesel Foundation has proudly announced the winners of the 2026 Mark Podwal Prize in Visual Art, a prestigious accolade recognizing artists whose works poignantly explore themes integral to Jewish identity, memory, and human connection. This award seeks to celebrate the profound impact of art in expressing the enduring resilience of Jewish communities, particularly through challenging times.

A Celebration of Artistic Ingenuity

The winning entries were meticulously selected by a distinguished jury from a diverse array of submissions, demonstrating the current vibrancy of Jewish art and culture. The winners will be honored at an upcoming exhibition held at the Dr. Bernard Heller Museum, Hebrew Union College in New York City, starting on April 17, 2026, and running until June 25, 2026. This exhibition will feature both the winners' works and selected pieces by the esteemed artist Mark Podwal, known for his contributions to Jewish visual arts.

The Winners

The 2026 accolades are awarded as follows:

• - First Prize: Allison Zuckerman for "Even a Flood Could Not Wash Away the Flame"
• - Second Prize: Joan Linder for "Titled"
• - Third Prize: Max Bauman for "Emergency Golem"

Additionally, Honorable Mention was granted to Joshua Meyer for "Eight Approaches."

Allison Zuckerman, who secured the first-place title, expressed that her artwork embodies the relentless strength of Jewish communities — emphasizing how they remember, rebuild, and find hope. "Art allows us to speak to resilience in ways that words alone cannot," Zuckerman stated.

Roots and Inspiration of the Prize

Established in collaboration with the Podwal family, the Mark Podwal Prize has its roots in the deep creative partnership between Mark Podwal, one of America's most notable Jewish artists, and Elie Wiesel, a Nobel Laureate and Holocaust survivor. The award not only acknowledges outstanding artistic contributions but also aims to inspire future generations to engage with culturally significant themes through their art.

LizAnn Eisen, the Executive Director of The Elie Wiesel Foundation, highlighted the dual nature of art — serving both joy and responsibility. "By honoring these artists, we celebrate Jewish creativity as a living force. This creative expression invites us to remember our past and to embrace the complexities of our identity as we move forward with purpose and hope," she remarked.

The submissions accepted for this prize encompass all visual mediums, inviting artists from across the United States to articulate narratives of heritage and resilience in their creative works. As the next opportunity for participating artists approaches in May 2027, the Foundation encourages innovative expressions that reflect the nuanced stories of Jewish life.

A Legacy to Uphold

The Elie Wiesel Foundation, founded in 1987, is dedicated to promoting memory, tolerance, and equality through various educational initiatives. The Foundation stands on Wiesel's values of moral responsibility and human dignity, supporting numerous programs focused on youth empowerment and human rights advocacy.

Additionally, the Dr. Bernard Heller Museum operates as a central hub for contemporary Jewish artists, fostering discussions around art’s role in understanding Jewish identity and culture. The museum aims to provide visitors with insights into Jewish heritage while engaging with broader societal themes.

Exhibition Details

Those interested in viewing the exceptional works of the prize winners, alongside Mark Podwal’s selected pieces, are invited to attend the public exhibition starting on April 17, 2026. Preview press dates will commence on April 6, 2026, providing the media with a first look into an exhibition that promises to be both visually stunning and deeply thought-provoking, portraying narratives of continuity and resilience through art.

In celebration of the arts and their capacity to convey profound stories, the Mark Podwal Prize not only highlights the achievements of individual artists but also reinforces the collective narrative of the Jewish community's ongoing journey.