“Dialectics of Departure” is the ongoing collaboration of Ariel Efraim Ashbel and visual artist Rachel Libeskind. In it, they build performative outdoor walks bringing together traditional jewish ritual, philosophical debate, artistic shenanigans and historical research. This multidisciplinary approach results in a contemporary understanding of accountability, remembrance and celebration – one that enables a complicated and urgent discussion about Jewish life in 21st century Europe. “DoD” is developing and continuously growing in the streets of Berlin. The work started in 2023 with HAU Hebbel and Ufer in Kreuzberg , followed by two new iterations with Sophiensaele (2024) and the Berliner Ensemble (2025), two artistic venues in the former east Berlin area of Mitte. A fourth walk premiered in 2025. It was featured in the holiday-related series by Ashbel and friends Rites of Spring (2023), The Omer Count (2024) and The High Holidays of 5786 (2025)
2023: Walk #1: HAU Hebbel am Ufer
2024: Walk #1: HAU Hebbel am Ufer, Walk #2: Sophiensaele
2025: Walk #2: Sophiensaele, Walk #3: Berliner Ensemble, Walk #4: HAU Hebbel am Ufer
