Exploring Jewish History Through Art

The UVA community received a very special guest this past September. Mark Strauss, a Holocaust survivor originally from Poland and currently a Virginia resident, came to speak to students about his life story. Mr. Strauss opened up to students and faculty about his experience in hiding and surviving in the Holocaust as a young boy. The room fell silent as Mr. Strauss told stories of crouching in sewers for hours or scavaging for food in his starved state. The vivid descriptions became even more surreal as Mr. Strauss shared his beautiful oil paintings with the audience. Many students purchased copies of the artwork in order to remember hearing this of struggle and resilience.

In my role as Arts & Culture Engagement Intern, I chose to organize a program that blended art and Jewish history. I wanted to give all UVA students a chance to hear first-hand about what it was like to live through the Holocaust as a Jew. A lot of people have not had the opportunity to do so, and I believe that it is an important talk for everyone to hear. It is a very unique and rare chance that we are able to talk with a Holocaust survivor, and we should take advantage of this opportunity while we have it. It was so rewarding to see UVA students with all different backgrounds and majors to come out to this inspiring event.
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-- Rachel Mayman
Class of 2018