A Rose Among Thorns (Herem):  The rabbinical authorities of the Jewish community published a long list of curses against Spinoza, as they ordered a complete herem (excommunication).  I thought about the irony of the curses against a man named Baruch (“blessed”).  Despite his isolation, Spinoza continued to write and publish books of philosophy, and he met with like-minded liberal scholars from the Christian community.

I picture the Jewish elders in the dark, behind a wall, while Spinoza sails over their heads, buoyed by his own ideas.  Despite the cruel isolation they imposed on him, the rabbis had to admit that Spinoza lived an exemplary life of personal charity and humility.

The title is a pun on Spinoza’s name, which is a variation on the Spanish word espina (thorn).

Printed by artist on Takach press, 20” x 16”. Small edition, up to 25 prints. Numbered and signed by artist.