Facing Survival | David Kassan

This compelling and transformative exhibition features the masterful paintings and drawings of acclaimed artist David Kassan, capturing the poignant stories and portraits of Holocaust survivors.

“Facing Survival” stands as a profound testament to the enduring power of art in narrating the untold stories of resilience and survival. Through the evocative paintings and sketches meticulously crafted by Kassan, the exhibition unveils the profound journey of more than two dozen Holocaust survivors. By intertwining the visual representation of the survivors with the sketches revealing Kassan’s artistic process, this exhibition transcends conventional forms of testimony, forging a poignant visual language that surpasses the limitations of spoken or written word.

Preceding the creation of each portrait, Kassan deeply engaged with the survivors, filming their testimonies and comprehending their intricate histories. His profound connection with his subjects enables him to capture not just their present visages, but the essence of their harrowing pasts. The lifelike imagery pulsates with their spirit, pain and dignity, transforming these paintings into testaments of resilience and reflections of lives shaped by unspeakable violence.

Moreover, “Facing Survival” aspires to transcend the incomprehensible statistics—such as the unfathomable six million lives lost—to highlight the individuality of each survivor. It is a testament that defies generalization, seeking to evoke a profound emotional connection, to allow us to bear witness to the miraculous existence of each singular soul.