A Jewish art exhibition featuring work by Ames artist Helene J. Kaplan launched Tuesday at the From Gifted Hands Art Gallery in Ames, running through Oct. 15.

Kaplan’s work portrays the Jewish faith by displaying prints and greeting cards of holidays and life events that are important to the Jewish way of life.

“I have chosen to focus on the Jewish family, life cycle and holidays because they reveal so much about the infinite richness of this religion,” Kaplan said.

Holidays depicted include Sabbath, Purim, Hanukkah, Passover, Rosh Hashanah and Sukkot. The exhibit will also be showcasing life events and celebrations ranging from birth, becoming an adult (Bar and Bat Mitzvah), marriage and death.

Kaplan said she considers family to be the true core of most religions and has tried to relate this from the Jewish and her personal point of view.

“These works are very meaningful to me. I have always held family and personal relationships as a high priority, and I hope that I have reflected that in my art,” Kaplan explained.

With the help of Rabbi Judy Bluestein, Kaplan has thoroughly researched the complete history and significance behind each of the events in the works.

She has included a written explanation with each work as well as the Hebrew prayer and the symbols that are important to its observance.

Kaplan has been involved in art education since 1965 and was executive director of The Octagon Center for the Arts for five years and the assistant director for 10.

It wasn’t until recently that she was given the opportunity to create art herself.

Kaplan urges everyone to come take a look; she has written clear explanations that anyone can understand and enjoy.

Kaplan will present her work at a public opening tonight from 4 to 7 p.m. The community is invited to sample some traditional Jewish refreshments and meet the artist.

Admission is free and open to everyone. There will also be an opportunity to purchase the prints and cards.

The From Gifted Hands Gallery is located at 209 Main Street and is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.