At a session of the Jewish Funders Network’s 2021 International Conference, Hyperallergic Editor Hrag Vartanian facilitated a discussion asking some of the biggest investors in Jewish arts and culture: Why do we invest in Jewish arts and culture? Do we fund art for art’s sake, or do these investments overlap with our broader philanthropic goals? And how do we measure and evaluate impact in this sector? Scroll down to watch the video.
Since the session took place shortly before Passover and the launch of “Dwelling in a Time of Plagues,” audience members were invited to share what has plagued them and what has blessed or liberated them in this pandemic year. New Yorker cartoonist and Asylum Arts fellow Liana Finck then created the quick interpretations below.
Feeling blessed to get to stay home and stop pretending not to be an introvert. 
The plague and blessing of trying hard to make life seem fun and meaningful during these times 
Plagued by the blending of life and work 
Uplifted by the connections made online with other far-flung people 
Blessed and also plagued by how small we feel in the universe
Presenters:
Lou Cove, Founder, CANVAS
Rabbi Marc Baker, President and CEO, Combined Jewish Philanthropies
Rachel Levin, Senior Advisor, The Righteous Persons Foundation
Watch more videos from the JFN 2021 International Conference.