After weeks of waiting to see the Perlman Tree in person, the first thing I noticed upon arrival at Kallah was the collection of artwork. Everywhere I stepped foot, I would be surrounded by them: murals, paintings, sculptures. It felt like being wrapped in the warmth of memories and the love other people had for Perlman. But behind the structures and pretty colours, I knew it wasn't just about the art; they were the reflection of the community. A creative outlet to express: "Hey, we've been here before, too". 

Frankly, on the first day, the idea of forming a community seemed unrealistic and scary. How can a bunch of strangers call each other "family" in only 3 weeks?  Fortunately, day by day, I proved myself a little bit more wrong. 

Just as in a work of art, community is slowly built upon. It's in the passionate debates on Israeli politics. It's in the hugs and hearty screams we share at Havdalah. Even in those high fives in the Birkat Hamazon. 

I realized that my fear came from the fact that I wanted the “final product” before doing the sketch, selecting the colours, and getting on the ladder to paint. 

Thankfully, Kallah is all about creating slowly: from works of art to family. 

As of today, Kallah 2025 has not only left its mark on two beautiful murals, but our spirit lingers on every space we fill. 

Because art can tell stories better than words. And even though not all of us participated in the making, our story will forever be represented in the walls of Perlman: a story of love, friendship, and appreciation.