Eruv: Queer Installations in Jewish Space: A Book Launch and Walking Conversation

Join us on May 17 for the launch of Eruv: Notes on Queer Installations of Jewish Space, by micrograntee and artist Iso E. Setel. The book examines the ways in which eruvin function as queer objects, dissolving distinctions between the public and the private, and reconditioning spatial relations. Eruv collages together text, photography, and paper-cut maps of ritual terrains to articulate how eruvin might be utilized as ritual technology in projects of queer liberation and community formation.

Iso will be leading a walking conversation through the Mile End, that will begin in Parc St-Viateur and end in Champs des Possibles, by way of back alleys and looping paths through the neighbourhood. On the walk, Iso will be sharing their research and the work that went into creating the book, while inviting attendees to reflect upon and share their experiences in queer and Jewish spaces.

Copies of Eruv: Notes on Queer Installations of Jewish Space will be available for purchase, $15 or PWYC. Half of all book sales will be donated to local projects that support queer youth. 

Please note that spaces are limited for walking tour, but books will be available for those who are unable to attend. Email Iso at iso.setel@gmail.com to request a copy.

Spaces are limited. To reserve your spot, click here. 

In the event of rain, this event will take place the following day, Wednesday May 18, at the same time and location.

This event is a part of the Museum of Jewish Montreal’s Microgrant Program for Creative or Cultural Exploration, which is funded by the Quebec Community Group Network’s Community Investment Fund. We also thank the Jewish Zine Archive for their partnership. 

About Iso:
Iso E. Setel is a filmmaker and interdisciplinary artist based in Montreal / Tiohtiá:ke since 2017. Utilizing moving images, text, and textiles, their work addresses questions of visibility, sense and memory in documentary film and installation. Their work has been exhibited in the U.S. and Canada, most recently as part of IGNITION ’16 at the Leonard & Bina Ellen Gallery in 2020. Originally from Buffalo, New York, Iso received a BA in Political Studies and Electronic Media Arts from Simon’s Rock in 2017, and an MFA in Film Production from Concordia University in 2021.