Beverley-Jane Stewart

My work began with Jewish architecture, offering a window into how Jewish communities have integrated into broader societies over time while maintaining their distinct cultural identity. Through my research and artistic practice, I delve into the Jewish experience, particularly focusing on the remnants of European Jewry and the Holocaust, examining how these historical legacies continue to shape the present.

More recently, I have broadened my focus to document the experiences of displaced communities around the world.

I describe myself as a "visual writer," weaving intricate narratives of community survival, the interaction between private and public spaces, the power of prayer, and the integration of displaced communities within multicultural societies.

My artworks are interpretations of extensive research, which involve personal visits to historical sites, studying archives and books, and conducting interviews. Architectural detail is a hallmark of my compositions, grounding my pieces in history while imbuing them with a deep sense of place and belonging.

I earned an honours degree in Education and Art from London University, where I initially focused on abstract art. This foundation laid the groundwork for my future as a visual storyteller. Over the years, while honing my skills, I was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and became a member of the Croydon Art Society for professional artists. My unique ability to blend fact and emotion allows me to tell the story of Jewish communities from the past to the present, encapsulating Jewish history as a rollercoaster in time.

My work has been commissioned by prominent institutions such as United Synagogue and Lord Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. I have been praised by art critics, including Jenni Frazer of The Times of Israel, who stated, “Beverley-Jane goes beyond the buildings themselves, surrounding them with a rich cornucopia of local history and community.”

Ram Ozeri, Director of the Jerusalem Biennale, also commended my work, calling it “impressive and very relevant.” 

My pieces from the 2017 Jerusalem Biennale were displayed in the Knesset, where they caught the eye of renowned historian Simon Schama, and one of my works was permanently installed in the Mayor of Jerusalem’s office.

In 2020, I had a solo exhibition at Tel Aviv University, further solidifying my reputation as a leading artist in exploring Jewish heritage. Rona Towzinger of Israel Today admired my ability to connect emotion with social history in the architecture of the synagogue, quoting me: “Jews don’t live in a vacuum.” This reflects my approach to art, which constantly seeks to connect the Jewish experience with the broader tapestry of society and history.

In addition to my traditional oil paintings, I have been experimenting with new materials, including plexiglass, concrete, and engraving on wood, while also developing my techniques as a printmaker. My ability to work with diverse mediums enriches my storytelling, bringing depth and innovation to my compositions.