Sculpture exhibition fundraiser for Hadassah

Retired dentist David Kolieb has turned his focus to creating art, with his evocative sculptures appearing at the “Give us a hand” exhibition on July 13 and 14 in Malvern, with all proceeds donated to Hadassah Australia.

The theme, Kolieb said, was derived from picking up his grandchildren from school.

“The child holding my hand or rather my finger. From there the idea ‘blossomed’ into other gestures. I try to create images which emote and are evocative.”

This is Kolieb’s third exhibition, with the latest created over three years. “Losing myself for hours drawing up the idea, kneading the acrylic, refining, and redefining until my hands cramp or the vision begins to blur. Calming but at the same time, the excitement of transforming an idea into a 3D image makes the heart sing,” he said.

He observed that many of the skills required for dentistry are applicable to creating art.

“Dentistry requires a high degree of manual dexterity, observation and attention to detail. All key skills needed to fulfil my passion for art and art practice,” Kolieb said.

As to why he has chosen to exhibit at this time, he shared, “While I am opening myself and my artwork to you, this is not about me per se, but rather an effort to make a difference, to resist, to do. The event provides a platform for Hadassah to highlight their needs and, yes, I am hoping to contribute to Hadassah through the sale of the artwork.”

Kolieb’s connection to Hadassah stretches back many years when he and his wife Mira established a Healing Garden at Hadassah Mt Scopus. “We visit the garden when we can, we sit, we breathe, we listen to our hearts, we cry, we take in the colours, we feel alive and privileged,” he said.

Kolieb said he looks forward to welcoming guests at the exhibition’s opening on July 13 at 6.30pm, and hopes the community will “Give us a hand” to raise funds for Hadassah Australia.

For more information visit malvernartists.org.au/exhibitions/