Beyond the Studio
Rabbi Adina Allen on Creativity, Connection and Community
Rabbi Adina Allen, cofounder and creative director of Jewish Studio Project (JSP) and author of “The Place of All Possibility: Cultivating Creativity Through Ancient Jewish Wisdom,” brings a unique perspective to Judaism, weaving together art, spirituality and community. In anticipation of her time with us for the Candice and Robert Haas Visiting Scholar weekend of March 28-30, Rabbi Allen shared insights into her journey, the origins of Jewish Studio Project and what we can expect from our time together. Learn more and register for the weekend’s events here.
What sparked your creative calling?
Growing up in suburban Chicago, our home revolved around my mother’s art studio, a space of endless possibility. My mother, a renowned art therapist, taught me that “answers exist within us,” and that artmaking is a powerful tool for self-discovery. This artistic foundation paired with many impactful Jewish experiences, including summers at URJ camp OSRUI led me to where I am today.
How did Jewish Studio Project come to be?
Ten years ago, my husband Jeff Kasowitz and I cofounded JSP. It was an idea I first wrote for my rabbinical school thesis that was inspired by my upbringing and mother’s work. At JSP’s heart is the Jewish Studio Process, which blends traditional Jewish text study with the expressive arts practice created by my mom. This unique method allows individuals to connect with Jewish texts on a deeper, more personal level through art and reflection.
Can everyone be creative?
A central belief at JSP is that “everyone is created creative.” I believe creativity isn’t just about artistic talent but is rather a fundamental part of being human. Our creativity reflects the divine creative force — God’s first action in the Torah was to create. I know that many people carry “core creative trauma,” experiences that have stifled their artistic confidence. At JSP, we aim to help people reclaim their natural creativity, recognizing its importance in every aspect of life, artist or not.
What is unique about Jewish Studio Project’s approach?
Jewish Studio Project is driven by three core principles. It offers a fresh, multimedia approach to engaging with Jewish texts, leading to deeply personal and impactful interpretations. It opens new avenues for prayer, recognizing the creative process itself as a form of sacred expression. Finally, it fosters community connection, offering a space to explore personal challenges and anxieties together, supported by the shared experience of artmaking.
What can we expect from our weekend with you?
I envision a time of play, discovery and deep meaning. I hope you’ll connect with parts of yourselves you haven’t accessed in a while and cultivate “studio habits of mind” like embracing a beginner’s perspective and find freedom in letting go of perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or believe you’re not creative, this weekend is designed to be welcoming and transformative for everyone.
What is “The Place of All Possibility”?
My book, “The Place of All Possibility,” offers a theological framework for a Judaism of creativity and a practical guide to Jewish Studio Process. It includes hands-on exercises and explores how creativity can enrich our lives as Jews. Like JSP, the book emphasizes bringing Jewish wisdom into our everyday experiences.
Anything you’d like to leave us with?
Just as the lessons of Judaism connect to our lives outside of the text, I encourage everyone to integrate the principles of the process into all aspects of their lives. I’m truly excited to be coming to Temple Emanu-El. I value the collaborative nature of learning and the evolving interpretations of our texts. I hope this weekend will be a source of heart opening, upliftment and connection, giving us tools to navigate these times with hope and openness.
Originally published in the 2025 March/April Window.