Hidden Light

Artist Reflections

During the long, dark nights and dismal days of winter, it can be hard to remember the days full of sunshine. However, the eight days of Chanukah come to remind us of the light concealed beneath the darkness. I captured this olive tree on the outskirts of Jerusalem in the dim, dull light following sunset as the eighth and final day of Chanukah began. By using the method of long exposure, keeping the shutter of the camera open longer than usual to let more light in, the photograph revealed the vibrancy of the colors obscured to the eye. This embodies an essential teaching of Chanukah: A little light dispels a lot of darkness. Even when there is very little light, we still have the potential to reveal the magnificence of the world around us.