Shabbat has always been a time for reflection, connection, and renewal. But for five Jewish women in Winnipeg, one special Friday night became the foundation for something even more profound: an artistic sisterhood.
It all began a year ago with Shabbat of Love, an initiative that brought together over 180 participants across 28 homes, uniting Jewish families and individuals in warmth, hospitality, and community. The project, made possible by microgrants and shared resources, reminded participants of the strength found in gathering around the Shabbat table. But for five women—Shan, Mishelle, Etel, Yael, and Halley—it also became the starting point of a creative journey.
That evening, their shared stories, laughter, and inspiration laid the foundation for what would become the Rimon Art Collective, a collaborative effort that has flourished over the past year. As the women put it, “Our art collective was born over challah and wine, and a year later, we gathered again, surrounded by our own artwork, amazed by how far we’ve come.”
Their story echoes the long tradition of Jewish women shaping and strengthening their communities, from the courage of Queen Esther—whose heroism is celebrated on Purim—to the countless leaders, artists, and visionaries who continue to inspire today. With both Purim and International Women’s Day this month, the Rimon Art Collective is a testament to the power of women’s creativity, resilience, and friendship.
As the Shabbat of Love initiative proved, a single evening can plant the seeds for something far greater.