Shira Hecht-Koller
Meet Shira Hecht-Koller: educator, explorer, creator, mother, artist, writer, wandering spirit, retired attorney, teacher of Jewish texts, children’s book author, amateur photographer, grower of watermelons, tennis player and instructor, life-long learner, cycler, gatherer of people, convener of conversations, facilitator of ideas, dinner party host, connector, builder, coffee-addict, museum-goer, people-watcher, journal scribbler, camper, hiker, swimmer, biker, lover, sister, child, colleague and friend.
For a more formal introduction and bio see here.
Photography & Experiences:
As an educator, I capture images to make sense of the world around me. From small observations to impactful moments, my lens captures the essence of the world. Photography helps me pay attention and notice the details that might otherwise pass me by. Beyond capturing images, I’m also intrigued by the philosophical aspects of photography.
“An amazing, joyous achievement.”
–Kirkus Starred Review
My new book, Dream Big, Laugh Often and More Great Advice from the Bible, created with world-renowned collage artist Hanoch Piven, has received a starred and wonderful review from Kirkus. It has been named one of the Most Empowering Picture Books of 2023 by Kirkus, and one of the Best Jewish Children’s Books of 2023 by Tablet Magazine. The book, published by Farrar, Straus & Giroux, is widely available online and at your favorite independent bookshops.
Through the use of found objects and bright collages, Hanoch and I imagine the advice that 14 Biblical characters might offer you. Feel your power. Trust the journey. Be Curious.
Publisher’s Weekly wrote a piece about the serendipitous events and friendships that led to the creation of this book. Read the review here.
Featured Articles
I am grateful to have the opportunity to write for both scholarly and popular publications.
Below are some highlights and selected articles for you to read and think about. I hope you enjoy them.
Jewish Leadership: The Power of the Many
In her essay Women & Power: A Manifesto, classicist Mary Beard prompts us to think about power in ways that are…
Safety and the Creation of Sacred Spaces: Ancient Models and Contemporary Takeaways
Space informs practice within it. It affects how we spiritually engage, how we socialize, how we conduct our professional…
The BEST: Sol LeWitt: A Wall Drawing Retrospective
The BEST: Sol LeWitt: A Wall Drawing Retrospective Reviewed by Shira Hecht-Koller Summary: Sol LeWitt: A Wall Drawing…
Bein HaShemashot of Motherhood
Each day the sunset indiscriminately throws the world into a haze of uncertain beauty. Like the fluids that paint the body…
Anonymous Leadership: The Emotional Drama in Ishay Ribo’s Seder ha-Avodah
Ishay Ribo has had a record-breaking year.[1] The French-Israeli singer, who has become popular with both secular and…
Let's Connect
I am available for teaching engagements, workshops, book talks, and facilitated conversations. If you are interested in connecting to explore possibilities, please be in touch.