#United States #West Hartford #Jewish Hartford #Steven Laschever #Mandell JCC

A New Lens on Jewish Hartford: Our Community, Our Stories

Jewish Hartford is ready to redefine your understanding of its rich cultural legacy with an extraordinary photography exhibit titled 'Jewish Hartford. Our Community. Our Stories.' This impactful showcase, created by the renowned photographer Steven Laschever, will commence on December 7, 2025, at the Chase Family Gallery located within the Mandell Jewish Community Center in West Hartford, Connecticut. To mark the launch, an opening reception is slated from 12:30 PM to 5:30 PM featuring an array of international live music, and guests will be treated to complimentary refreshments. The exhibit will remain open to the public until January 23, 2026.

A Celebration of Identity and Diversity

Laschever’s photographic work stands out as it beautifully encapsulates the essence of the Jewish experience in Hartford. Through almost 50 meticulously crafted black-and-white portraits, the exhibit tells captivating stories of community members from all walks of life—including university presidents, judges, artists, athletes, Holocaust survivors, and centenarians—showcasing a vibrant tapestry of resilience and cultural evolution. Each photograph acts as a window into the individuals' lives, affirming that the Jewish experience is formed of countless stories and traditions intertwined over generations.

One poignant image, 'A Light All Her Own', depicts a woman holding the Etz Hayim, or Tree of Life, stationed before a portrait of her mentor, Rabbi Philip Lazowski. This mesmerizing capture not only celebrates the personal and collective beauty of Jewish identity but also serves as a reminder of the bonds forged through mentorship and shared heritage. Additionally, the portrait titled 'Law and Legacy', portrays respected Jewish judges at the Connecticut Supreme Court, highlighting their invaluable contributions to justice and community values over decades of service.

An Experience Beyond the Gallery

Guests will find a multi-dimensional experience throughout the exhibit, complemented by a commemorative coffee table book featuring stunning prints and dynamic digital presentations. This unique approach is designed to immerse visitors into the heart and soul of Jewish Hartford, emphasizing the profound connections that bind individuals to their community. According to David Jacobs, CEO of the Mandell JCC, the project stemmed from an initiative to reflect on the community's identity: “What emerged is a portrait of Jewish Hartford that is proud, complex, and deeply connected—people of every generation and background whose stories remind us why community matters.”

Bridging the Past and Future

Laschever's approach is inspired by the documentary style of illustrious photographer Frederic Brenner. His portraits not only capture intimate moments but also invite the viewers to embark on their own journeys of discovery within the shared narratives. The resulting exhibit is not merely a collection of photographs; it serves as a bridge to understanding the heritage, values, and hopes of the Jewish community in the face of contemporary challenges, including rising antisemitism.

Laschever, who has dedicated over 40 years to documenting Hartford's Jewish community, has an unparalleled ability to connect with his subjects, allowing their true selves to shine through. His experience encompasses diverse settings, from studios to educational environments, ensuring that every memorable image resonates far beyond its frame. With his work displayed in magazines and galleries across Connecticut, Laschever's talent lies in capturing the essence of moments that reflect both individual and collective identities.

About the Mandell Jewish Community Center

The Mandell Jewish Community Center serves as a welcoming hub for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, committed to fostering connections and understanding amidst its vibrant atmosphere. Alongside its cultural programs, the center offers a multitude of fitness, educational, and recreational facilities, ensuring a community-focused environment rich in opportunities for engagement.

For those wishing to experience the meet of culture, resilience, and an array of stories woven through Jewish Hartford, this exhibit promises to be a transformative experience. Join the conversation, learn about the community, and celebrate the enduring strength found within its narrative. For further details regarding the exhibit, visit the official website: Jewish Hartford. Our Community. Our Stories..

Event Details:

• - Exhibit Title: Jewish Hartford. Our Community. Our Stories. Photography Exhibit
• - Opening Reception: December 7, 2025 | 12:30 PM - 5:30 PM
• - Location: Chase Family Gallery, Mandell JCC, 335 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford, CT
• - Exhibit Duration: December 7, 2025 – January 23, 2026.