The People’s Plate: A Public Art Display

Big Art. Real Stories. Shared Community.

March 23–26 | Science Center Plaza

In the week before Passover, a nine-foot interpretive seder plate will stand in the most public-facing space on campus, inviting the entire Harvard community into conversation about Jewish life, identity and culture.

Created by local Jewish artist Michael Mittelman in partnership with Harvard Hillel, The People’s Plate draws on stories from students, faculty and alumni across the Harvard Jewish community. Each element of the sculpture represents a different expression of Jewish identity, transforming one of Judaism’s most recognizable symbols into a work of public art that is both deeply personal and open to all.

Come see it. Come talk about it. Come be part of it.

Events

Monday, March 23 | Opening Reception | 6–9 PM Celebrate the launch with an evening reception featuring the artist, light refreshments, and the chance to experience the installation together as a community. The reception will take place at Cambridge Queens Head at 45 Quincy St, Cambridge MA 02138. RSVP Now

Tuesday, March 24 | Meet the Artist | 10 AM–12 PM Stop by for coffee and pastries and meet Michael Mittelman. Learn about the inspiration, process and ideas that shaped the work.

Tuesday, March 24 | Interfaith Passover Seder | 6–8 PM An interactive model seder designed for participants of all backgrounds to explore the story, rituals and themes of Passover together. All are warmly welcome.

Wednesday, March 25 | Ask the Rabbis | 12–3 PM Drop in for coffee and conversation with campus rabbis. An open space to ask questions, explore Jewish ideas and reflect on themes connected to the exhibit.

Thursday, March 26 | Passover Treats Tasting | 10 AM–1 PM Sample traditional Passover treats while learning about the foods, flavors and customs that shape the holiday table.

About the Artist

Michael Mittelman has spent over twenty years working at the intersection of art and technology, creating virtual reality sculptures in welded steel, producing interactive installations and using digital fabrication to create novel works. His art has been shown locally and nationally, including at the List Center for Visual Arts, the deCordova Museum, Mayyim Hayyim and the Spalter Digital Art Collection. He holds a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from Massachusetts College of Art, with additional study in architecture through Columbia University’s NY Paris program.

“I actually think everyone should make a symbolic seder plate for themselves that expresses their identity and values. Jews have been iterating on seder plates for generations. As one of our moveable traditions, it invites creative expression.” — Michael Mittelman