Claude Riedel is a glass artist and grandparent to Aidan (grade 5) and Charlotte (pictured, grade 2). Claude comb
ines thetraditional forms of blown and stained glass to create Nerot Tamid, eternal lights that burn above Torah arks in synagogues. Each piece he makes is unique and entirely handcrafted.
“I seek a radiant purity of light which inspires and calms the spirit of the congregant,” Claude wrote on his website. “The use of a soft, translucent pallet of clear and colored glass allows worshippers to focus on their prayer. On closer inspection there are hidden jewels of meaning within each piece.”
Claude “virtually” visited his grandchildren’s art classes on Monday. He explained his inspirations and how he sculpts, and the students got to look through many of Claude’s pieces. Each student chose their favorite Riedel Ner Tamid and sketched it along with tactilely exploring the designs.
Claude has an exhibit at Foci Minnesota Center for Glass Arts called From Darkness into Light: Claude Riedel and the Art of the Ner Tamid. The exhibition is open through March 27, and he will speak this Saturday, February 19. See more info and RSVP here.
Hear from Claude and see some of his works with the video tour he shared with Heilicher students.
Aimee Orkin, Heilicher Art Specialist, wrote to Claude, “Having a grandparent speak to grandchildren about how to bring light from darkness and beauty from brokenness and cruelty is a gift you share every day and with us at Heilicher.”
