Lenny Letter (the email newsletter of Lena Dunham and Jenni Konner), published an interview between Amy Kellner and Orthodox Jewish sex therapist Bat Sheva Marcus and hired me to create an accompanying image. With my illustration, I hoped to highlight a moment in Jewish tradition that is traditionally the domain of women: the lighting of Shabbat candles. In this practice, women cover their eyes while reciting a prayer. When they open their eyes, they see the light (both spiritually and literally), and Shabbat officially begins. I placed Mrs. Marcus in the center, with eyes already uncovered to a bounty of flowers, leading fellow women to do the same.
This assignment came in and was completed in 24 hours, with the final image made in gouache and ink. Thanks to Art Director Laia Garcia!