The Strength to Grow 2025

A successful exhibition is a blend of beautiful artwork, engaging conversations, new connections, and an inviting atmosphere. By all measures, our exhibition was a great success.

I’d like to share a few impressions.

The exhibition took place at Beit Omanim in Rishon LeZion, a modern, light-filled space designed specifically for showcasing art. The setting provided the perfect backdrop for Ilana Shechter’s works, which integrated seamlessly into the environment—airy, delicate, and infused with energy.

Chinese painting is an art of precision and focus. Every brushstroke, every line is the result of years of training. Ilana, with her exceptional self-discipline and unwavering commitment to excellence, has spent 12 years studying this art form under the guidance of master painters.

Mastery in Chinese painting is not just about technique—it also requires a deep understanding of materials perfected over millennia. The right brush for each stroke, the subtleties of Chinese ink, the skill of mounting rice paper—all of these elements are essential. Ilana’s demonstration at the exhibition offered visitors a glimpse into this intricate craft.

But at the heart of every exhibition is its audience. Art is created to be seen, experienced, and discussed. We were fortunate to welcome a diverse group of visitors—art lovers from different backgrounds and ages, both familiar faces and new acquaintances. Conversations flowed, ideas were exchanged, and stories behind the paintings came to life.

Together with Ilana, we answered questions, shared insights, and enjoyed every moment of this creative encounter. It was a true celebration of art and connection.

When fierce winds blow, bamboo bends gracefully yet never breaks. It bows its head with quiet humility, without a whisper of complaint, knowing it will rise again to embrace life anew.

The wise pine understands patience - like water wearing away stone. Unlike its forest companions, it neither sheds its coat nor changes its ways. Standing as an unwavering warrior, it grows defiantly through scorching heat and bitter cold, thriving not because of gentler seasons, but in bold defiance of nature's challenges.

And what of the plum blossom? Such delicate beauty might seem fragile at first glance. Yet these flowers burst forth like starlight against the snow, painting hope across winter's canvas. Where others retreat, the plum blossom triumphs. It reminds us that endings are merely preludes to new beginnings, that warmth always returns after the cold.

They say hard times teach us to embody these three friends: to be like bamboo - flexible yet unbreakable; like the pine - rooted in identity, steadfast in purpose; and like the plum blossom - kindling hope's flame when darkness threatens to extinguish it.
The pine, bamboo, and plum blossom—known as the "Three Friends of Winter"—are symbols of resilience, vitality, and hope. Together, they embody the ability to overcome hardships while staying true to their nature.

The Strength to Grow exhibition features works dedicated to the "Three Friends of Winter." They are depicted both together and separately, allowing the viewer to experience their harmony while also appreciating the unique character of each.

Publication letter from the Rishon-le-Tsiyon Artist Organization