This unique exhibition is on view now through July 5 at the SAMA Altoona location, 1210 11th Ave., Altoona.

Funded through a grant from The Greater Altoona Jewish Federation and the Department of Community and Economic Development, this program offers a rare opportunity to explore the cultural and artistic contributions of Jewish artists whose creativity helped shape American art. Through this diverse selection of works, visitors will gain insight into the historical and cultural narratives that influenced these artists and their enduring impact.

“This exhibition is both a celebration and an educational opportunity,” said Jodi Peachey, SAMA Altoona site director and media contact. “We are honored to showcase works that reflect the resilience, innovation and cultural significance of Jewish artists. It is our hope that visitors will leave with a deeper appreciation of the artistic legacy represented in our collection.”

An opening exhibition celebration will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 25. Cost to attend is $10 per person and includes refreshments and light appetizers. Tickets can be purchased online at www.sama-art.org/altoona or by calling the museum.

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art will host a pair of exhibits highlighting Jewish artists and Holocaust survivors. Both exhibits open today, Friday, April 17. Courtesy photo

Children’s programs

Two children’s activity programs will accompany this exhibition. Registration is encouraged but not required for these free programs. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Parents do not need to purchase tickets and are encouraged to view the exhibits while their children are participating in the workshop.

“The Tikkun Olam: Repairing the World Through Art Program” will help children learn about the principles of Tikkun Olam, the Jewish values of kindness, justice and care for the world, through a recycled art workshop and kindness stone activity. Workshop dates are Wednesday, April 29, 5:30 to 7 p.m. for ages 6-9 and Friday, May 22, 5:30 to 7 p.m. for ages 10-14.

“The Symbols of Meaning: The Art of Jewish Tradition Workshop” will be a hands-on workshop that will introduce children to the rich visual language of Judaism through symbols such as the Menorah, Star of David, and Hamsa and will also include pomegranate-themed artwork. Workshops will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 15, for ages 10-14; and from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, for ages 6-9.

SAMA will also present two screenings of the film “Woman in Gold” a 2015 biographical drama based on the true story of Maria Altmann and her fight to reclaim art stolen by the Nazis during World War II. A matinee screening will begin at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 26. An evening screening is scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, May 1. A suggested $5 donation supports this and future SAMA programs. Popcorn and drinks will be available.

For more information, contact Peachey at jpeachey@sama-art.org 814-946-4464.

Survivors’ portraits

SAMA Altoona will also present a powerful exhibition of portrait photography by acclaimed visual artist Nancy Baron of Los Angeles, California.

“Into the Light: Survivors of the Holocaust” will be on display from April 17 through June 12 and features Holocaust survivors from the Palm Springs area, capturing their strength, resilience and humanity through intimate and compelling photographic portraits.

In her fine art documentary photography, Baron captures the faces and stories of Holocaust survivors who also combine as members of a dwindling generation of American immigrants who deeply cherish their adopted country. Many of the individuals portrayed express profound gratitude for the American forces that helped liberate the camps in which they were imprisoned, as well as for the sanctuary, freedom and opportunity the United States has offered them since that time.

Baron’s portraits provide a deeply moving human dimension to the exhibition, honoring the resilience, memory and enduring spirit of those who survived one of history’s darkest chapters. The photographs encourage reflection on heritage, survival and the enduring importance of cultural and historical memory.

Baron’s work is widely recognized for its emotional depth and sensitivity, and this series offers a profound visual tribute to individuals whose lives and stories bear witness to one of history’s most devastating periods. Through her lens, Baron brings viewers face-to-face with survivors, preserving their legacies while inviting reflection, remembrance and dialogue.

“This exhibition is a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit,” Peachey said. “Nancy Baron’s portraits honor the lives and stories of Holocaust survivors in a way that is both deeply respectful and profoundly moving. We are privileged to share this important work with our community.”

By presenting these portraits, SAMA Altoona aims to encourage reflection on themes of memory, survival and identity, while reinforcing the importance of preserving firsthand accounts of history for future generations.

The exhibition is funded in part by a grant from the Department of Community and Economic Development.

SAMA hours

The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art is located in the Brett Building at 1210 11th Ave., Altoona. The hours of operation are noon to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. The museum is an accessible facility and is open to the public free of charge. A $5 suggested donation for admission helps support SAMA’s free and low-cost programs. For more information, visit https://www.sama-art.org, call 814-946-4464 or email altoona@sama-art.org. Follow SAMA on Facebook and Instagram @SAMAaltoona.

If you go

What: “Our History is Your History – Works by Jewish Artists in the SAMA Permanent Collection” and “Into the Light: Survivors of the Holocaust.”

When: Now through July 5 for ‘Our History’ and now through June 12 for ‘Survivors’ exhibit.

Where: Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, Altoona, 1210 11th Ave.

Cost: Free admission; $5 donation suggested