The Association for Israeli Decorative Arts (AIDA) recently contributed support to the Benyamini Contemporary Ceramics Center's International Invitational Installation Residency for artist Walter McConnell. Below is a letter from Marcelle Klein, describing the project in detail with accompanying images.

________ Letter from Marcelle Klein Benyamini Contemporary Ceramics Center Dear Doug and Aviva, A week has passed since Walter McConnell has returned home and of course we are still enjoying the fruits of this wonderful project - an exhibition that is open to the public until the 6 July including organized tours to see our exhibition as part of the Fresh Paint art and design show that takes place this coming weekend.

The entire project was very worthwhile on so many levels. It began with making the actual work in the gallery space together with some of our students, resident artists and teachers who got to see first hand what goes into making an installation of this size and impact. During the first days of installation we had a weekend of performances and the endless stream of visitors had an added surprise - an ongoing "performance" - a leading ceramic artist making a work in front of their eyes for a site specific installation.

In addition, Walter gave a large audience an outstanding lecture on his work, the concept, inspiration and processes involved in creating this type of work. He also spoke about ceramics at Alfred University, another important connection for our professional community. I am happy to say that through word of mouth - many, many people are coming to see the exhibition - with high recommendations for our colleagues and the galleries in the area.

I am attaching a few images taken by our photographer Shay Ben Efraim of the installation. A short video will follow in the not too distant future. I would like to thank you and the AIDA supporters for the very generous support in making this project a dream come true! It is an important milestone in the Benyamini history and agenda - making the general public and artistic community aware of the value and possibilities of ceramics. We certainly hope that this project will continue in the future making a highlight in our exhibition programming.

Warm regards and with much appreciation, Marcelle Klein Benyamini Contemporary Ceramics Center