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 years ago after struggling to find objects that fit the aesthetic of a contemporary home. Her work aimed to close this gap with pared-down designs that utilized high-end materials, bright colors, geometric precision and simple, clean lines.
“I’ve seen much more emerge over the last few years — a testament to growing engagement with Judaism in this moment — but at the time I started the brand, it felt like I was the only one,” Schwartz told RNS.
She increasingly sees contemporary Judaica functioning as a bridge between aesthetics and spiritual practice, particularly for many younger Jews who may not have grown up with strong religious observance but are interested in exploring Jewish traditions on their own terms.
“More and more people are lighting candles every Friday,” she said, pointing to increased customer engagement over the past three years and warm messages she regularly receives from clients through social media.
According to the Jewish Federations of North America, an unprecedented 43% of respondents across all levels of previous Jewish involvement “were seeking to or engaging more in Jewish communal or religious life,” especially college students and recent graduates. This aligns with reports from laypeople, rabbis and organizations across the political and denominational spectrum who say there is a marked increase in synagogue attendance, community engagement and conversions into Judaism since 2023. Outreach organizations like Chabad-Lubavitch also report a marked increase in interest of unaffiliated Jews looking for greater observance. Elsewhere, synagogues have experienced some of the same polarization and political fractures, echoing broader trends across the country.
Amid these conditio …