The CANVAS Compendium: Dispatches from the New Jewish Renaissance
Dear Reader,
I am delighted to announce that Jennifer Kessler joins CANVAS this month as our first-ever Director of Programs.
As Director of Programs, Kessler will oversee the design and implementation of CANVAS’s grantmaking strategy, professional development initiatives, and convenings to connect and nurture a vibrant community of practice.
Over the past few years, the CANVAS network has blossomed to include more than 20 active grantees in the Jewish arts sector, located all across North America. Collectively, these organizations serve well over 3,000+ artists who create, engage, and contribute every day to contemporary Jewish creativity. Together, they reach audiences in the tens of thousands.
Kessler herself is a distinguished arts leader, nonprofit executive, educator, artist, and advocate for the field. She joins CANVAS following her successful tenure as Executive Director of the International Contemporary Ensemble (ICE) in New York and previous leadership roles at Willie Mae Rock Camp, Orchestra of St. Luke’s, and Carnegie Hall, where she has collaborated with artists and creative professionals on hundreds of cultural and educational programs. (You can read more in her full bio here.)
The 21st century Jewish cultural renaissance is one of our most powerful expressions of the Jewish experience, in all its richness, diversity, and complexity. We know that CANVAS, grantee partners, and all the creative professionals who fuel this renaissance will greatly benefit from Jennifer’s passion, dedication, and expertise at a critical time for this field.
Jennifer shares this enthusiasm:
“I am thrilled to join the CANVAS team and support the incredible artists, organizations, and thought leaders shaping the North American Jewish cultural landscape. Having served on the Advisory Council since CANVAS’s early days, I’m inspired by the team’s responsiveness and intention around the unique challenges facing Jewish artists, leaders, and cultural organizations. I look forward to collaborating with grantees and partners to further strengthen this dynamic ecosystem.”
Please join us in welcoming Jennifer, and here’s to the vibrant future of Jewish arts and culture!
Sarah Burford
CANVAS COO
Photo of Jennifer Kessler by Mariana Meraz
