Welcome to our program, designed to foster both support for Israel and the creative growth of children. We provide a platform for young minds to unleash their artistic talents through Israel-related art. Our aim is to instill a sense of joy and Jewish pride, even amidst challenging times, by celebrating their artistic achievements that reflect the essence of the Jewish State.
About Us
Power from Pain
In the aftermath of the pivotal events on October 7th, we were all in a state of profound shock: Why? How? With so many questions in our minds, we were confused and devastated. Then, we quickly started to think, "What can we do to help Israel and the people in Israel?" Our desire to contribute to Israel, to deepen our connection with Judaism, and to heal our scattered hearts became the central focus of our daily lives, fueling our hearts to move forward.
When Sivan traveled to Israel, we discovered a poignant detail: among the victims were art school students, devoted art enthusiasts, and established artists. These individuals turned to art to express the beauty and brightness of life, to thrive in life—full of passion, love, and peace. This revelation solidified our belief that the art program will serve as a powerful and meaningful way to aid in healing. Things will never be the same after what happened, and the broken pieces may never be fully mended. But we can always rebuild something new and hopeful from the fragments, something even more beautiful. Art provides a platform to express hope, strength, and love.
We firmly believe in the transformative power of education, recognizing children as the architects of our future. With this in mind, we created the IlluminART Israel Program. This event goes beyond artistic expression; it is a communal endeavor to strengthen Jewish pride, connection to Israel, and values of compassion, understanding, and unity in the younger generation, empowering them to become agents of positive change in the world.
We are proud to share that 100% of the proceeds from the IlluminART Israel Program were donated to an organization in Israel called "Healing through Arts," which provides art therapy for evacuees. Through this donation, we hope to further support the healing process for those affected by the recent events, helping them find solace and strength through the transformative power of art.
Meet Sivan and Noriko
Co-founder of IlluminART Israel
Sivan Greenspan's journey from teaching to motherhood, volunteerism and philanthropy infuses her work and community service. Sivan earned her M.S.Ed. from Bank Street and has taught at SAR and Lincoln Square Synagogue in NYC and Tenafly Chabad Academy and Gan Henel in New Jersey. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to contribute to the academic growth of students from early childhood through middle school. Sivan also enjoys travel, playing musical instruments and spending quality time with her husband, sons and daughter and their dog.
Her instagram is @morahsivanart.
Sivan Greenspan
M.S.Ed.
Noriko Weinstock, born and raised in Japan, has an extensive background in children's publishing at Japan‘s largest educational publishing house, with expertise in international business. She is also skilled in translation between Japanese and English. Beyond her professional work, Noriko enjoys Japanese kosher cooking and sewing, as well as traveling with her husband and two sons.