BIFF to present second annual Environmental Film Series
Great Barrington — The Berkshire International Film Festival will kick off its second annual Environmental Film Series with “The Human Element” Sunday, Feb. 24, at 3 p.m. at Bard College at Simon’s Rock’s Daniel Arts Center.
In ‘The Human Element,” directed by Matthew Testa, environmental photographer James Balog uses his camera to reveal how environmental change is affecting the lives of everyday Americans. Following the four classical elements of air, earth, fire and water to frame his journey, Balog explores wildfires, hurricanes, sea level rise, coal miners and the changes in breathable air. The film tells an urgent story while giving inspiration for a more balanced relationship between humanity and nature.
Tickets are $10 for the general public and free for BIFF Reel Friends and Simon’s Rock students and faculty. For tickets and more information, see the Berkshire Edge calendar or contact the Berkshire International Film Festival at (413) 528-8030.
–E.E.
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Congregation Ahavath Sholom to host ‘Jewish Graphic Artists’ talk
Great Barrington — On Sunday, Feb. 24, at 2 p.m., Congregation Ahavath Sholom will host Arthur Hillman, professor emeritus of photography, printmaking and design at Bard College at Simon’s Rock, for a presentation titled “Jewish Graphic Artists.” Hillman will show and discuss the art and design work of Jewish graphic artists Ben Shahn, Leonard Baskin, Elaine Lustig Cohen, Milton Glaser and Barbara Kruger, as well as his own work. The talk will be followed by a reception for the exhibit “Arthur Hillman: Visual Midrash” at 3:30 p.m. in the Upstairs Art Gallery at the synagogue. The exhibition covers work completed by Hillman over the past 20 years.
Admission is free and refreshments will be served. Donations are welcome. For more information, contact Congregation Ahavath Sholom at (413) 528-4197 or info@ahavathsholom.com.
–E.E.
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WordXWord to hold ‘Heart in America’ poetry reading
Pittsfield — WordXWord Festival’s Poets Creating Conversation series will present a poetry reading around the theme “Heart in America” Monday, Feb. 25, at 7 p.m. at the Berkshire Museum.
By challenging poets to circle loosely around a theme or issue in the current social discourse, PCC events create a broad, multi-dimensional “conversation” among poems, poets and audience. By sharing personal stories, observations and challenges as well as moments of inspiration and hope, the event will weave a tapestry of creative voices that helps to individually and collectively navigate the way forward.
The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact WordXWord at info@wordxwordfestival.com.
–E.E.
