Love Thy Neighbor

By Iris Klein

Love Thy Neighbor was the title of a recent art exhibition held in Scarsdale, New York from October 5 - October 30, 2025. Lori Kapner Hosp is the artist responsible for putting this project together. Time spent at home during the pandemic gave Lori a lot more opportunity to work on her passion for painting, and working with a local refugee assistance organization gave Lori the inspiration to begin painting with a purpose. Thus the idea for this incredible act of kindness was born. This is Lori’s third exhibition. She has spent the last two years preparing her latest paintings, as well as covering all of the art expenses herself. This year’s exhibition has so far raised almost $18,000.

One hundred percent of the proceeds from the sale of the paintings go directly to organizations that protect freedom of speech and religion, fight discrimination, and support interfaith understanding. Beneficiaries include ACLU of NY, NAACP and Anti-Defamation League. Lori chose the specific beneficiaries because of her belief in the worth of each of their causes.

The focus of the exhibition is to promote goodwill among people of different faiths. Every painting has a story, and a lot of personal research goes into each one. In Lori’s words, “the artwork serves to start conversations and foster appreciation of one another’s differences. The paintings depict the beauty of the places people come from, and the connections across religions. I am hoping that this work inspires respect and fosters peace among us all.”

The centerpiece of the Love Thy Neighbor exhibition is the Hamsa as a symbol of peace. As researched by the artist, “The Hamsa hand featured in this painting is instantly recognizable among several religions and cultures as a symbol that heralds good fortune, unity and peace. Historians say that it predates Islam and Judaism, and one theory suggests that it comes from ancient Egypt. Whatever it’s origins, the Hamsa is universally seen, not as a religious symbol, but more as a talisman that repels evil. A good luck charm worn as jewelry, displayed in homes and carried as an amulet, the Hamsa is considered a protection against harm.”

One of the best parts of this year’s exhibition for Lori was the opportunity for conversations with those who donated. “It is so satisfying to hear them describe their reasons for choosing particular paintings, and what aspect of the painting speaks to them personally.”

Paintings are still available on Lori’s website, and those who purchase a painting are able to direct their donation to the beneficiary of their choice. The link to her website is:  https://www.lorikapnerhosp.com/