Making Ner Tamids, the eternal light which graces the Bimah and all congregants in the sanctuary, has become a very personal journey for me. The opportunity to create such meaningful pieces of ceremonial art for synagogues across the country allows me to honor my Jewish heritage. As a member of a family that includes survivors of the German Holocaust there is no more powerful symbol for me than the Eternal Light.

My pieces combine traditional forms with evocative blown glass. I seek a radiant purity of light which inspires and calms the spirit of the worshipper. The use of a soft, translucent pallet of colors allows individuals to focus on prayer yet there are hidden jewels within each piece representing the multiple strengths within Judaism. I prefer the use of a gas flame when possible, and I work with a designer of flame control systems to create safe and convenient fixtures. But, if preferred, all Ner Tamids can be lit electrically. Each piece is unique, finely crafted, entirely hand made and designed to fit your architectural setting. I enjoy the collaborative process, both for what it symbolizes and for the inspiration it provides. I look forward to working with your synagogue.

Creating Our Ner Tamid
I’ve recently had the opportunity to spend time in the studio of Claude Riedel whom Shir Tikvah has commissioned to create our Ner Tamid. I’ve been impressed by how he weaves back and forth between
the function, the scriptural images and the visual aspects of the piece.

"He has aimed to create a Ner Tamid that seems both ancient and modern."

The Sanctuary Design Committee met recently with Claude to look at his design. The glass is in three layers-one nesting inside the other surrounding the eternal light with layers of translucent energy. The glass rests in a copper base shaped like three pomegranate leaves--an image often seen in Jewish art. The design for hanging the Ner Tamid, which extends on a curving rod of textured copper, evokes the passages of the Eternal Light being handed forth from God. During a lively discussion about scale Claude reminded us that ceremonial art should ideally inspire and not detract from prayer. Our Ner Tamid should be beautiful but not overtake our attention.The installation and dedication of the Ner Tamid will take place at services on December 11.

Amy Lange
October 1998
Shir Tikvah Congregational Newsletter

Claude Riedel Light Eternal
5133 Bryant Ave. South
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55419
Phone: 1.612.805.2533
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