A Gift of Legacy and Art: Maud Friedland’s Ceramics at JCC Denver 

The Staenberg–Loup Jewish Community Center of Denver (JCC) is proud to unveil a historically significant work of art, a ceramic creation by the renowned Israeli artist Maud Friedland, graciously donated by Bob and Sandra Rhodes. This extraordinary gift, which is now on display in the JCC’s main lobby, not only honors the rich history of Jewish heritage but also celebrates the enduring legacy of Bob Rhodes, whose passion for art and innovation profoundly shaped Denver’s cultural landscape. 

Maud Friedland, born into a Jewish family in Vienna, is a figure whose life story is as powerful as her art. Fleeing Austria in 1938 to escape Nazi persecution, Friedland ultimately settled in Israel, where she made her mark as a lecturer and head of the ceramics department at the Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design in Jerusalem. Her art is deeply rooted in her Jewish identity, reflecting themes of survival, tradition, and renewal. Friedland’s abstract designs and groundbreaking glazing techniques are a testament to her resilience and creativity, capturing the complexity of her journey and the strength of the Jewish spirit. 

The piece donated to JCC Denver is more than just a work of art. The donation is also a tribute to Sandra Rhodes’ late husband, Robert (Bob) Rhodes, whose own creative legacy is legendary in Denver. Bob’s work at May-Daniels & Fisher (May-D&F), a cornerstone of Denver’s retail and cultural history, was instrumental in transforming the city’s landscape. Bob’s singular vision brought art to the forefront of retail with his stunning holiday window displays, which became must-see attractions for Denverites. His creativity further extended to projects like the Parade of Lights, Zoo Lights, and Blossoms of Light, projects that continue to enrich the city’s cultural fabric today. 

The connection between Bob Rhodes and Maud Friedland’s art goes back to 1973, when Friedland’s ceramic piece was part of a celebration for Israel’s 25th Anniversary of statehood. This exhibition, which was featured at May-D&F, was a testament to the store’s commitment to bringing global art to the Denver community. Bob and Sandra Rhodes’ donation to the JCC not only honors the life and work of Bob but also pays homage to the cultural exchange that defined his career and Denver’s artistic evolution. 

The impact of this gift extends beyond the artwork itself. It is a symbol of the deep ties that bind the Jewish community together—ties of heritage, resilience, and creativity. This piece by Maud Friedland, which resembles an aerial view of the old city, will inspire generations to come, reminding all who experience it of the power of art to bridge communities, tell stories, and preserve history. 

As JCC Denver celebrates the unveiling of this remarkable work, we also express our profound gratitude to Bob and Sandra Rhodes for their generosity. This piece will not only be a centerpiece of artistic expression but also a lasting reminder of the bonds of community, the importance of creative legacy, and the enduring spirit of those who shape our cultural identity. Together, we thank the Bob and Sandra Rhodes for this extraordinary gift and look forward to its lasting impact on the generations to come.