Cleveland High Students Exhibit Original Holocaust Artwork
Students from Cleveland Charter High School showcased their original Holocaust artwork as part of the David Labkovski Project (DLP). This educational initiative highlights Holocaust history through the life and art of David Labkovski, a Jewish artist born in Russia.
Overview of the David Labkovski Project
The David Labkovski Project was founded in 2016 by Leora Raikin, the artist’s great-niece. It aims to cultivate critical thinking in students about historical events while encouraging creativity for a better future. The program fosters awareness of antisemitism and the broader implications of history.
Art Exhibition Details
On February 12, 2026, 43 ninth-grade honors history students participated in an exhibit held in Reseda, California. This event marked the culmination of a 10-day program focused on Labkovski’s life and the Holocaust.
Student Contributions
Participants created original artwork reflecting themes of memory and resilience. Jake Thomas, a senior and DLP student ambassador, emphasized the impact of learning history through art, stating it allowed him to witness the Holocaust and explore his perspectives.
- Leah Jauregui, a 14-year-old student, created a piece symbolizing suffocation and imprisonment.
- Naomi Arteaga depicted the harsh realities of confinement.
Educational Approach
The DLP curriculum began with an introduction to Labkovski’s art and life. Students learned to analyze artistic elements and discuss the historical context of his works. Their final presentations included an art-share segment where they connected their pieces with history.
Evelyn Machado, another DLP student ambassador, shared insights on the importance of empathy and responsibility in learning about the Holocaust. The focus extended beyond past events, urging students to reflect on contemporary issues of hatred and division.
About David Labkovski
David Labkovski (1906-1991) is known for his narrative art, which captures the experiences of Holocaust survivors before, during, and after World War II. Many of his works are set in Vilna, depicting life before the devastation brought by the Nazis and the Gulag.
In 1958, Labkovski immigrated to Israel. He dedicated his life to ensuring his art would educate others about the Holocaust while promoting hope for humanity’s future. Resa Nikol, the DLP education director, reiterated the project’s mission to use art as a medium for understanding history and combating hate.
Conclusion
The David Labkovski Project continues to have a significant impact on students, merging artistic expression with historical education. Through this initiative, students at Cleveland Charter High School are learning the importance of empathy, critical thinking, and preserving the memories of those who suffered during the Holocaust.
