Mural at Ramah Day Camp in Nyack
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Time to read 2 min
A camp mural that celebrates the joy of Jewish summer camp through color and song
Client: Ramah Day Camp in Nyack
Location: Nyack, New York
Date: July 2024
Size: 8' x 24'
Camp Mural Brief
Ramah Day Camp in Nyack is located on a beautiful campus, full of lush green trees and four swimming pools (yes, four!). The camp director wanted to add some color and fun to the main entrance to the camp, the first thing campers see when they get off the bus. The entrance was originally somewhat hidden, so they needed something BIG and bold to grab attention.
Additionally, the camp director envisioned the mural as kind of a freestanding billboard that could possibly be dismantled during the winter, if need be.
Rabbi Ami Hersh, camp director, said, "I often say that our camp is a place where we want campers and staff to be proud human beings in the world and proud Jews in the world. We want to them to push themselves, just enough, to be the best versions of themselves. And we want them to have a lot of fun!"
The camp mural needed to reflect the sense of fun and pride, and of course bright summer colors.
The Inspiration
Every Friday, campers and staff gather on a large field and have a dance party! One of the songs they always play is called "Amen," and it was actually a Eurovision song in the 90s. The lyrics to this verse mean, “Bless us and shine upon our faces. Open our hearts so we will always sing for you.”
Rabbi Ami Hersh selected this verse for the Ramah camp mural because "it is a reminder - and a blessing - for everyone walking into camp about the powerful work that happens each day of the summer."
Conclusion
Check out the timelapse of my painting process for this fun camp mural! It was incredibly fun to paint, and the kids had so many questions about what I was doing. That's honestly one of my favorite parts of painting!
I had an absolutely amazing time painting this mural at Ramah Day Camp in Nyack. Not only did I get to do what I love (painting), but I also got to stay at camp, and my son got to attend as a camper! The mural added much needed visibility to the camp entrance.
"Working with Hannah Perlman this summer was a true gift. Her creativity, warmth, and collaborative spirit brought incredible energy to our community. The mural she created at the entrance to camp is more than just vibrant and joyful—it’s a daily reminder of the heart and soul of our mission. Inspired by a beloved camp song, the artwork invites every camper, staff member, and visitor to enter with open hearts and lifted spirits. It has quickly become a beloved landmark and symbol of the magic of summer at camp."
