Mimi Levy Lipis Libri

Focusing on the intersection of architecture and gender, this investigation delves into Jewish spatial practices through two types of house symbols: ritual objects reflecting house iconology and metaphors that ascribe meaning to the term. It uncovers how these elements interact with cultural and Jewish studies, offering insights into the influence of space on the production and maintenance of identity within Jewish communities.

The construction guidelines for a Sukkah, over 1500 years old, dictate it must have at least two and a half walls and a thatched roof allowing visibility of the stars. This photography book showcases contemporary Sukkah architecture from Europe, Israel, and the USA. Originating from biblical traditions, the Sukkah is a Jewish ritual structure built for just one week in the fall, raising paradoxical questions of diaspora and belonging. Mimi Levy Lipis's photographs capture both ordinary and extraordinary Sukkot: a Sukkah on a truck outside a Manhattan restaurant, those on lonely parking lots in London, a permanent Sukkah in Berlin, and criss-cross stacked booths in Jerusalem. The images also depict Sukkot made from identical fabrics in London and Tel Aviv, highlighting the quirky and humorous aspects of these temporary structures. The simplicity of Sukkah architecture prompts reflection on contemporary issues, making this collection a fascinating exploration of cultural identity and community through the lens of a time-honored tradition.