Art as a Bridge to Connection: The Inaugural Richard and Ellen Sandor Israeli Arts and Culture Prize

By Kaileia Suvannamaccha | Photo by Nancy Guth

Ellen and Richard Sandor first encountered the artwork of Israeli artist, Sigalit Landau, in Jerusalem. Their friend had taken them to an exhibit at one of the museums in the city. Landau is globally celebrated for her ability to turn everyday objects like clothing, fishing nets, and even a cello, into works of art by immersing them in the Dead Sea, where they undergo a striking crystallization process. “Immediately, it appealed to both of our sensibilities,” Richard Sandor recalls. “It was multimedia, sculpture, and deeply tied to the environment, so it hit my particular vein—really, both of ours.”

Ellen Sandor, whose own artwork appears in the permanent collections of the Smithsonian Institution and Art Institute of Chicago among other acclaimed American museums, champions the creative depth of Landau’s work. “This was mind-blowing. It was nothing like what I had seen before. When you see so many pieces like this throughout the museum, it absolutely blew me away,” she says.

“In Israel, everybody seems to know who she is—she’s that famous,” Ellen adds. “Her work combines history, the environment, and Israeli culture in ways that are unforgettable.” The couple, deeply moved by the experience, decided to acquire a few of Landau’s pieces for their family collection—a passionate legacy which they have been building for more than 40 years. 

“We realized how little Israeli culture is being shown in the U.S.,” Richard continues. That’s when the Sandors knew they had stumbled upon an opportunity to bring something truly special back home to Sarasota.

Partners for a Prize

Ellen and Richard Sandor have long been philanthropic patrons of the arts, blending their passion for creative expression, cultural awareness, and environmentalism through their support of various local and international organizations, including the Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee.

Richard describes the Federation as “an uplifting, positive experience,” with a particular admiration for its impressive architecture and thoughtfully designed campus. Inspired by the Federation’s vision and the foundation they already have in place, he saw “a powerful example of what voluntary philanthropy can achieve” and sought to bring “a fresh viewpoint” to their cultural offerings.

This year, their partnership culminated in the creation of the inaugural Richard and Ellen Sandor Israeli Arts and Culture Prize—an award aimed at honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to Israeli arts and culture. The 2025 recipient of this prestigious award is none other than Sigalit Landau, the interdisciplinary artist whose innovative sculptures incorporating elements of the Dead Sea left a lasting impression on the Sandors back in Israel.

Shepard Englander, Federation CEO, shares “Richard and Ellen are smart, thoughtful, and collaborative partners whose creative idea to establish an Israeli Arts & Culture Prize captures the Federation’s vision to celebrate our shared Jewish culture and the incredible spirit of Israel.”

“Her work is a perfect metaphor—not only for the Federation but for all Floridians facing environmental challenges,” says Richard, who is internationally regarded as the “Father of Financial Futures” and a “Hero of the Planet” by Time magazine for his pioneering efforts in environmental finance.  He highlights the importance of bringing Landau’s art to a new audience, explaining: “The Dead Sea is shrinking, and here in Florida, we face the daily threat of catastrophic events. What better place to focus on environmental awareness through art?”

For the Sandors, the Israeli Arts and Culture Prize represents more than just recognition—it’s a celebration of Israeli creativity and culture. “The idea of the prize is to be optimistic, to recognize that there are important artists addressing cultural issues,” he adds.

“Richard knows in his head why he’s buying a piece,” Ellen points out. “He researches it—it’s not just an emotional decision—it has an intellectual basis.”

Sculpting a New Narrative

As one of the fastest-growing Jewish communities in the United States, The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee has become a vital center for cultural engagement and community-building. Through a variety of programs, including educational grants, mission trips to Israel, and efforts to combat antisemitism, the Federation is dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging for individuals of all ages and cultural backgrounds.

“They’re amazing, so first-class on every level. They have the right values,” says Ellen.

The Richard and Ellen Sandor Israeli Arts and Culture Prize is a natural extension of JFED’s mission to spotlight Israeli culture through a positive lens, offering a counterpoint to the often conflict-centered narratives emerging from the Middle East. 

“It’s about showing that even during horrible, wartime conditions, art saves. It really does,” Ellen adds. “We see so much negativity in the news, but art lifts people up—it’s a wonderful obsession.”

The Philanthropic Heart

Sharing their broader philanthropic vision, Richard notes, “For us, philanthropy is all-encompassing—art, education, performing arts—these are what make up a sustainable community. It’s about ensuring that every facet of the community thrives.”

The Sandors’ contributions to Sarasota’s cultural life extend to The Ringling and to Asolo Repertory Theatre, where Ellen serves on the boards, and the Sarasota Art Museum advisory committee. Richard lends his expertise to the Selby Gardens board. Notably, they’ve made recent donations to The Ringling’s exhibition on African American art and the Harry Callahan exhibit at Ringling College of Art and Design.

Ellen notes, “We are just standing on other people’s shoulders,” acknowledging the legacy of philanthropists who have paved the way for their own work. For the Sandors, their philanthropic journey is far from over. As Ellen says, “Life is short, but art is long. Art brings us up, makes us feel alive and joyful. To bring this prize to the Federation and share it with the community—it’s beyond positive.”

As they continue their philanthropic journey, the Sandors remain committed to nurturing the cultural landscape of Sarasota and beyond ensuring that art, education, and community can thrive for generations to come.

Ellen said it best: “We need more meaning and joy in our lives. And for us, art is the answer.” 

The conversation with Sigalit Landau and award ceremony is scheduled for February 5, 2025, at 2:00 pm at The Ora at the Joel and Gail Morganroth Event Center, located at 578 McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232. 

FOR MORE INFORMATION about Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, please visit www.jfedsrq.org.