Live Oak Public Libraries, in partnership with the Savannah Jewish Federation, Jewish Educational Alliance and Savannah State University, are pleased to host the international art show “Children of Jerusalem: Painting Pain, Dreaming Peace”.

This special art exhibit created by “The Institute for the Study of Religions and Communities in Israel” will be on display at the Bull Street Library in Savannah through Feb. 23.

This exhibit, which is free and open to the public, features original art created by Israeli and Palestinian children and teaches valuable lessons about peace, respect, acceptance and friendship. It also demonstrates the importance of art in bridging divided cultures and illustrates how yesterday’s enemy can become tomorrow’s friend.

The paintings in “Children of Jerusalem” were created by 50 Palestinian and Israeli children who live in a city divided by religion and war, but who are drawn together by their longing for a peaceful future together.

Over a two-year period, two groups of children participated in workshops led by Israeli and Palestinian art teachers. The paintings they created show how art can build a bridge between people and nations and across cultural, religious and political divides.

Since its debut in Jerusalem, “Children of Jerusalem” has received international acclaim, and has been featured in cities including London, Geneva and San Francisco.

This enlightening exhibit will have a broad appeal to a diverse community like Savannah and demonstrates how people who come from different sets of value and who hold different beliefs can work together and become friends.

For more information, contact Eyal Blank, Savannah Jewish Federation community Shaliach, 355-8111.