Mussart: Exploring Mussar through text study and art making

In this monthly 6-session workshop, we will explore the Jewish ethical practice of Mussar, by engaging with Jewish text and contemporary writings as a catalyst for art-making and self-reflection. Alan Morinis describes Mussar as “a path of contemplative practices and exercises that have evolved over the past thousand years to help an individual soul to pinpoint and then to break through the barriers that surround and obstruct the flow of inner light in our lives. Mussar is a treasury of techniques and understandings that offers immensely valuable guidance for the journey of our lives.”

How does Mussar illuminate our creative process?

How might our creativity support our understanding of Mussar?

Each session will include learning about an aspect of Mussar, focusing on a particular middah, ethical behavior or soul trait (i.e.: trust, joy, humility, equanimity, etc). This practice opens pathways for us to mindfully embrace and put into motion the concept of B’tzelem Elohim, understanding that we are all created in the image of the Divine.  Utilizing the methodology of the Jewish Studio Project, each participant will attend to refining their “soul curriculum”, a personal system to become in closer connection with one’s self, community and to The Divine Source through the creative process.

Please email evasaxbolder@gmail.com for the location in North Boulder.

Rabbi Eva Sax-Bolder is a spiritual leader and artist, designing transformative learning and ritual opportunities to provide seekers with joyful and creative approaches to Judaism. She meets people wherever they are on their spiritual paths to live with more purpose, joy and connection throughout every phase of life. 

R’ Eva received rabbinic smicha through ALEPH and graduated from Lev Shomea  as a Spiritual Director. She enjoys integrating the expressive arts into her teaching and is currently a Fellow of the Jewish Studio Project Creative Facilitator Training and the first Clergy Cohort. An alumna of CLAL’s trans-denominational Rabbis Without Borders and the IJS Clergy Leadership Program, she is also a teacher of Jewish Mindfulness Meditation, Mussar and Wise Eldering.

She recently moved to Boulder from NYC where she served as the rabbi of The Shul of NY and now serves as ‘Rosh Hashpa’ah, head of Spiritual Direction for the ALEPH Ordination Program, supporting the spiritual development of the seminary students and faculty. R’ Eva also maintains a private practice as a mashpia, a spiritual director. She is passionate about integrating the practice of Mussar and Art. . . thus, MUSSART, strengthening our soul trait curriculum muscles through the expressive arts.

Cost:

Members: $216 for all six classes, $40 for single class

Non-members: $236 for all six classes, $45 for single class

Register below: Members must be signed in to receive member price