Hornsey Library pays tribute to local Holocaust survivor and renowned sculptor Naomi Blake with a heartfelt creation for Holocaust Memorial Day.
Anita Peleg, the daughter of Holocaust survivor Naomi Blake, was left “gobsmacked” by a “magnificent” and “moving” tribute to her late mother. The tribute, an ornate candleholder, was unveiled at Hornsey Library this week as part of the nationwide ‘80 Candles for 80 Years’ project. This initiative marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and honours individuals and communities impacted by the Holocaust.
The candleholder, crafted by Haringey Libraries’ Tom Skitt, draws inspiration from Blake’s iconic ‘Memorial to the Holocaust’ sculpture. Made from clay, the piece features intricate details, including newspaper clippings that chronicle Blake’s life story, offering a profound homage to her resilience and legacy.
Naomi Blake, who lived in Muswell Hill, survived unimaginable trials during the Holocaust. Separated from her family, she and her sister Malchi worked in a munitions factory, secretly sabotaging bombs. The sisters endured a death march, but only eight of their family of 32 survived by the war’s end in 1945.
Separated from their family, Naomi and her sister Malchi worked in a munitions factory, where they sabotaged bombs. They survived a death march, but her family of 32 had been decimated by the Holocaust and only eight survivors were left by 1945.
In 1952, Naomi relocated to London, where she married Asher Blake, a young German refugee. Her artistic journey began at the Hornsey College of Art (now Middlesex University) between 1955 and 1960. Her work, which focuses on themes of optimism, unity, and faith, has been celebrated for promoting understanding across different religions.
“It’s a magnificent and moving tribute, capturing my mother’s life story in such incredible detail.” – Anita Peleg
Speaking about the tribute, Anita Peleg said:
“It’s a magnificent and moving tribute, capturing my mother’s life story in such incredible detail. Seeing it here in Hornsey Library, where her journey as an artist began, is truly special.”
The tribute is part of an exhibition featuring 80 bespoke candleholders created by community groups and organisations across the UK. These works highlight the resilience of Holocaust survivors while fostering awareness and remembrance for future generations.
The candleholder is currently on display at Hornsey Library, inviting visitors to reflect on the enduring legacy of Naomi Blake, a woman whose life and art continue to inspire.
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