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Modern Judaica helps Jews express identity, build community in uncertain times

July 7, 2026 · 1 min read

NEW YORK (RNS) — For generations, Judaica referred primarily to traditional ritual objects: menorahs, Kiddush cups, Shabbat candlesticks, tallits, mezuzah cases and Passover Seder plates. These objects are often made of precious metals and fabrics embodying the tradition of “ hiddur mitzvah ” — beautifying Jewish practice through artistry.

Today, a growing cohort of Jewish artists and curators say they want to honor the design specifications of traditional Jewish law while playing around and expanding non-traditional design in Judaica — from minimalist and geometric to playful and whimsical, to objects and garments inspired by secular high fashion and streetwear. Their vision comes at a moment when Jewish communities worldwide report an increased desire to engage in Jewish community , ritual or religious life in the years since the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel.

For some consumers seeking connection outside traditional institutional frameworks, contemporary Judaica has become an entry point into Jewish culture, spirituality and community.

Dana Holler Schwartz , artist and founder of the New York-based brand Via Maris, said she began designing Judaica about five…

Source: Religion News Service · Read the full story →

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💬 Comments (6) 🌐 Show original

Matthew Young

My wife had a simple brass menorah from her grandmother that we lit every Hanukkah. Interesting to see artists mixing high fashion with the old rules now, especially after everything that’s happened since last October. Makes me wonder if it actually pulls younger folks into the real rituals or just stays as nice decor.

Theresa Wagner

My grandma had an old silver kiddush cup that we only ever used on holidays. It's nice to read that Via Maris now works with a modern form but still according to the old rules. But I wonder whether such a fashionable piece really brings more young people into the community or whether it remains more of a nice accessory.

Alexandra Ciobanu

My grandfather had an old brass candelabra that we would light on Hanukkah, just like Matthew's. I find it interesting how Via Maris tries to keep the old rules but make the design simpler and more modern. I wonder if young people really get closer to the rituals through something like this or it remains just a fashionable decoration.

Margaret Adams

My grandma’s old brass Hanukkah menorah is still the one we pull out every year, nothing fancy but it gets the job done. It’s interesting that Via Maris sticks to the halakhic specs while going minimalist. I wonder if the younger crowd in our parish would actually light candles more often with one of those sleek new designs or if the old family piece still wins.

Ирина Голубева

In our Sunday school, we also often talk about old family things - one mother still has a simple tin candlestick from her grandmother. Interestingly, Via Maris tries to keep all the rules, but keeps things minimalistic. Is it true that because of such a fashionable uniform, young people are starting to light candles more often on Saturdays?

Ilie Popa

My grandfather also had an old brass candlestick, I kept it on the sideboard in the living room. Via Maris seems to me to manage to keep the essence without making the object too loaded. Do you think the young people in your family would use such a modern candlestick for Hanukkah, or would they still prefer the classic model?