Omer Art for the Heart

The 7-week period of the Omer, the time between the Israelites leaving Egypt (Pesach, Passover) and their receiving Torah at Mt. Sinai (Shavuot), is an opportunity for personal spiritual growth. Each week is associated with a character trait of Divinity—a middah. In this course we will study these holy traits, all of which reside within us, and discover an intention (kavanah) from which to make art. Throughout this period, utilizing a variety of art materials, we will EXPLORE and PLAY, tapping into a greater awareness of our own journey from redemption to revelation.

No art experience necessary. Please bring an art journal. All other supplies will be provided.

Cantor Abrams grew up at Temple Beth El in Rochester, New York, has a B.M. in Music Therapy from Michigan State University and an M.A. in Music Education and Therapy from the University of Minnesota. Since 1990 she has served Beth El Synagogue in Minneapolis in a variety of capacities: High Holiday Hazzan Sheini, prior to her ordination; Program Director; Associate Cantor beginning in 2001 after receiving her cantorial certification from Hebrew Union College; and Senior Cantor from 2007-2021 at which point she retired and became Cantor Emerita. In total, she has led High Holiday services at Beth El Synagogue for 32 years! 

Cantor Abrams is very involved in the programming from the Institute for Jewish Spirituality, having completed their 1st cantorial training cohort 20 years ago, and is an alum of Kol Zimra Chanting Cohort with Rabbi Shefa Gold. 

She believes strongly in contemplative practices elevating ones’ connections to prayer and their spiritual self. She has been a Mussar/Tikkun Middot facilitator for seven years and uses chanting, art, meditation in her work in the community. 

In her spare time, Cantor Abrams enjoys walks around the Minneapolis lakes, making art and taking art classes, movies, traveling and the TWINS! Cantor Abrams has two adult daughters, Rachel and Sal, and lives with her husband, David.