Our Society will induct two new members on Oct. 2: Ellen Nathan Singer and Allan Drossman. Here’s what they shared with us about themselves:
Ellen: I grew up in Brooklyn and was so fortunate to attend the Brooklyn Ethical Culture School from Pre-K through the eighth grade. It was the most enriching education a child could have. Academics were made alive for me, and art, shop, drama, and music filled the day. My parents headed the school board for a number of years, and then as a teenager I went to some of the Society meetings (led by Dr. Henry Neuman) and to some social events.
I am a graduate of Columbia University School of Dramatic Arts. I did a little acting. In my early twenties I took a class at the Art Students League in New York. I worked, and still do, as a monitor (an assistant to the teacher) in a number of classes and have taught there. I have taught privately and at the Bede School in Englewood, as well. I have worked as a professional artist my entire adult life, have won competitive prizes, and I am represented by a New York gallery.
My family, including my son, daughter-in-law, grandson, and partner Allan Drossman, bring me great joy. I am eager to see what contributions I can make to the Bergen Ethical Society.
Allan: Growing up in New York, I was able to spend a great deal of time going to museums and listening to jazz. Art and music are my great loves.
After art school I worked in commercial art for 40 years. Most of this time was spent as a graphic designer in television, using painting, drawing, collage, photography, and typography. I won three Emmys and two Writers Guild awards, but ultimately I was solving graphic problems for others, not for myself.
Thirty years ago I discovered clay and found my soul. My work reflects concern for our natural environment, its beauty and destruction as well as its rebirth.
My other great loves are my family—two daughters, four grandchildren, and my wonderful partner, Ellen Singer, whom I cherish.
