Exhibit: Grace. Dignity. Humility. Compassion: The Holocaust Survivors of Baltimore

Grace. Dignity. Humility. Compassion: The Holocaust Survivors of Baltimore

Photographic Portraits by Lisa Shifren
Exhibit Dates: Opens April 6, 2026
Reception: Tuesday, April 21

About the Exhibit
This deeply moving and enduring project honors the lives, resilience, and humanity of those who survived one of history’s darkest chapters. Initiated in 2006, the project grew out of Lisa Shifren’s work and personal connection with Baltimore’s Holocaust survivor community.

The exhibit features striking black-and-white portraits, each offering an intimate glimpse into the face of a survivor. Every image is paired with a biographical narrative and a photograph of the individual in their youth— creating a powerful juxtaposition that bridges past and present, memory and legacy. This body of work is more than a photographic collection; it is a living tribute and a call to remember. The project has evolved into a documentary journey that continues to educate, inspire, and bear witness. Since its debut in 2006, Survivor Portraits has served as a compelling tool for Holocaust education and remembrance. The exhibit remains available for public display and educational presentations.

Artist Statement
I titled this body of work Grace. Dignity. Humility. Compassion: The Holocaust Survivors of Baltimore because these are the qualities that have stood out to me most profoundly in the survivors I’ve come to know over the years. Their ability not only to survive unimaginable persecution and loss but to rebuild their lives with strength and grace has deeply inspired me.

I am continually in awe of how these remarkable individuals—despite the trauma they carry—live with a quiet yet powerful commitment to values such as tolerance, forgiveness, education, respect, family, and freedom. They embody resilience, not through grand gestures, but through the way they live, love, and lead by example.

This work is both a tribute and a responsibility. I feel a personal obligation to share what I’ve learned from these extraordinary people—lessons not only about history, but about humanity. Their stories deserve to be seen, heard, and remembered.

About the Artist
Lisa Shifren is an award-winning photographer based in the Baltimore area with over 30 years of experience behind the camera. She first discovered her passion for photography at age 12 while attending Camp Louise and went on to study the craft at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and the Maryland Institute College of Art.

Lisa has a remarkable talent for putting people at ease—especially those who feel uncomfortable being photographed—and capturing their authentic personalities with warmth and empathy. Her work focuses on headshots and personal branding, boudoir, and family photography, blending professionalism with a personal touch.

In addition to her creative work, Lisa is a dedicated Jewish communal professional, bringing the same compassion, connection, and commitment to her community as she does to her art. More at lisashifren.com