Sherwin Miller Museum Displays Masks Made By Students

Decorative masks made by Tulsa area students are on display ahead of the Jewish holiday Purim next week.

The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art holds a competition each year for young aspiring artists. The 15th Annual Purim Mask Invitational allows students to channel creativity and learn about Jewish culture.

 "But we want the kids to have fun and have that creative reign to do whatever their imagination comes up with,” said Mickel Yantz, Director of Collections and Exhibitions.

 You can tell with each mask imaginations ran wild for elementary, junior high, and high school students.

 It's all in recognition of Purim, a Jewish holiday next Thursday that celebrates the story of Queen Esther. Esther hid her Jewish background from Haman, changed his plans, and saved the Jews.

"And so, the masks represent basically Esther hiding behind this false mask of not being Jewish. And then coming out and celebrating and saving the people,” Yantz said

Yantz says the story is retold at Purim celebrations, where people wear masks and costumes. He says this competition lets students be as creative as possible, while also learning about the holiday.

 "It's a way for our museum to get out there and support the arts. The arts in school, the arts in the community. We are a fine art museum. And so, this is a way of starting them very young and get those creative juices flowing and a way for us to support them also,” Yantz said. 

The winners receive prize money and there will be an award reception on Thursday that's open to anyone.

The masks will be at the museum until May 1.