The ‘Vicious Circle’ exhibit in London features Shlomo Mansour’s unfinished artwork and addresses the historical and ongoing violence against Jewish communities. It explores antisemitism across five historical events and the fate of these communities today. The exhibition emphasizes the importance of recognizing and combating the roots of hate, connecting past atrocities to present challenges faced by Jews globally.
An unfinished artwork by Israeli hostage Shlomo Mansour, named ‘Butterfly Glasses,’ is part of a Holocaust Memorial Day exhibit in London. The exhibition, ‘Vicious Circle,’ highlights the persistent issue of antisemitism across five significant historical locations: Berlin (1938), Baghdad (1941), Kielce (1946), Aden (1947), and Israeli kibbutzim (2023). It presents thriving Jewish communities before they faced violence, showcasing their decline today, notably in Aden, where only one Jewish person remains.
The display features powerful photographs and artefacts, including a tzedakah box and a Hanukkah menorah. Maiken Umbach, the Chief Academic and Innovation Advisor at the National Holocaust Centre, emphasises the importance of remembering the beliefs that fuelled antisemitism, stating that this issue is not a relic of the past. Details of Mansour, who turned 86 during his captivity, reveal his background and significant contributions to his community, reflecting a life dedicated to peace despite recent turmoil in Kissufim.
The exhibit recounts the attack on Kibbutz Kissufim by Hamas, where 28 were killed, linking this modern tragedy to historical pogroms. Lyn Julius, a prominent advocate, notes that this is the first exhibit to highlight antisemitic violence against Jews in the Middle East, challenging misconceptions about Jewish identities. Paul Waugh MP’s remarks in Parliament reaffirm that genocides stem from longstanding hate, urging society to address this reservoir of animosity.
The National Holocaust Centre, distinct as a Christian-founded institution, has made a commitment to this vital educational work. Following its London debut, the exhibition ‘Vicious Circle’ will travel to cities including Berlin and Brussels, spreading awareness of the ongoing risks of antisemitism and the importance of coexistence.
Shlomo Mansour’s artwork and the ‘Vicious Circle’ exhibit serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring consequences of antisemitism, which has manifested throughout history and continues today. The exhibition contextualises this through the stories of Jewish communities worldwide, highlighting their resilience and the devastation wrought by violence. By connecting past and present incidents of antisemitism, the exhibit invites reflection on social attitudes and collective responsibility.
The display brings urgent attention to the ongoing issues of antisemitism, linking historical violence with contemporary realities faced by Jewish communities. The personal narrative of Shlomo Mansour exemplifies the resilience of Jewish identity amidst adversity. The exhibition’s educational outreach highlights the need for dialogue and action to combat hate, underscoring the significance of remembrance and community engagement in fostering a more inclusive future.
Original Source: allisrael.com