Film festival’s Art Party zooms in on Jewish comedians

By Anna Streetman

Atlanta artists played their work for laughs in tribute to Jewish comedians at the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival’s second annual Art Party.

It’s the one event of the 23-day festival that doesn’t feature a film screening, but the movies had a presence in the art pieces on display at the Mammal Gallery during the party Feb. 7. The Jewish comedy all-stars honored included film veterans Ben Stiller, Jerry Seinfeld, Adam Sandler and Sarah Silverman, and one of two large, interactive displays paid tribute to the Mel Brooks movie “Spaceballs.”

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The other large display was devoted to Johnny Carson’s “The Tonight Show,” which was a frequent showcase for Jewish comedians.

Faith Powell helped design the Carson set by creating a red turban. Powell was enthusiastic about her contribution to the display. “When I was asked to help, I said, ‘Outstanding!’ ” she said.

She also recruited a friend to help.

Artists Catlanta, Blockhead ATL, Clunky Robot and Crazy Monkey Trucker had their work on display at the party, co-sponsored by Creative Loafing and aimed at a Gen-Y audience.

A raffle for prizes such as tickets to the Fernbank Museum of Natural History benefited the film festival.

The Art Party provided some supplies for making art on site and some promotion for a new service for making connections throughout Jewish Atlanta, GrapeVine.

GrapeVine is a mobile app that was launched in Washington, D.C., in 2011 and was made available for Atlanta in September 2014. The app provides events and other community opportunities that fit users’ preferences. Besides Atlanta, GrapeVine is active in New York City, Los Angeles, Portland, Ore., and Rhode Island.

Food at the event included Cotton Cravings’ kosher cotton candy, provided by retailer Modern Tribe.

“This Art Party is a great way to stay connected in the Jewish community,” said Shellie Schmals, program coordinator for the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival. “You get to meet people from all walks of life and be involved with so many talented artists. It’s a rewarding experience.”