Artist Talk: The Art of Sacred Conversation

What does it mean to truly listen to ourselves, to one another, and to the Divine?

Join Rabbi Batshir Torchio and artist Samantha Grant for a conversation inspired by The I & Thou Phone, Samantha Grant’s immersive installation inviting visitors into a private conversation through vintage telephones. Drawing on the Jewish meditation practice of Hitbodedut – an intimate, personal dialogue with the Divine – you’ll explore how art and Jewish wisdom can help us slow down, listen more deeply, and create space for reflection, curiosity, and connection.

Presented during the Days of Awe, the reflective period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, this conversation will consider the role of reflection, sacred conversation, and the Jewish tradition of engaging with differing perspectives in pursuit of deeper understanding. Whether you’re exploring these ideas for the first time or returning to them with fresh eyes, you’re invited to an evening of thoughtful conversation, shared learning, and meaningful connection.

About our Speakers

Samantha Grant is an interdisciplinary artist, journalist and award-wining filmmaker whose work explores the intersections of Jewish tradition and human connection. Through immersive installations and participatory experiences, she transforms ancient Jewish wisdom into accessible, thought-provoking encounters that invite reflection, conversation, and community. Her work has been exhibited nationally and created in partnership with cultural, educational, and religious organizations, engaging audiences of all backgrounds in meaningful dialogue through art.

Rabbi Batshir Torchio is a ritual and spiritual practitioner who has been engaging with folks for lifecycle events and learning. She was ordained at AJRCA in Los Angeles, where she learned with rabbis and scholars from across the broad spectrum of Jewish movements. Batshir is moved by the translation and ownership of ancient ritual into contemporary meaning; to “make the old new, and the new, holy.” (Rav Kook) In addition to her role as Senior Jewish Educator at the Jewish Community Center of San Francisco, Batshir also guides tours through Israel and Poland, and is a life-cycle officiant, both locally and abroad.

About The I & Thou Phone Art Installation: On view Sep 9 – 23

Inspired by the philosophy of Martin Buber and Jewish spiritual traditions, Samantha Grant’s The I & Thou Phone transforms a collection of vintage telephones into spaces for reflection, conversation, and authentic connection.