Arc of a Masterwork: a Nevelson Chapel Update

In Search of the Artist’s Beginnings

Pastor Jared R. Stahler

Earlier this month I visited Nevelson’s childhood home, Rockland, Maine. Officially, I was there for a public conversation at the Farnsworth Art Museum with the museum’s chief curator Michael K. Komanecky. This public event was also an opportunity to express my gratitude to staff and friends of the Farnsworth who have cared for and lovingly cherished Nevelson Chapel’s Trinity Columns, transferred there as the new museum-quality HVAC system was introduced in the chapel environment back in NYC.

But the visit was more than a single public event. Thanks to the many communities—Jewish, “Mainer,” art, and civic groups—that welcomed me to their Rockland homes, I had the opportunity to explore the place that nurtured this singular genius. Millions know her as Louise Nevelson, but Rockland also knows her as Leah Berliawsky.

Read the full update HERE.