Peter G. Svarzbein's photographs of "Crypto-Jews Living in the Southwest United States" will be shown at the Rosenzweig Gallery, in Durham, through Jan. 23.

Crypto-Judaism is the secret adherence to Judaism while publicly professing to be of another faith. The term "crypto-Jew" is also used to describe descendants of Jews who still (generally secretly) maintain some Jewish traditions, often while adhering to other faiths, most commonly Catholicism.

Peter Svarzbein was born and raised in the west Texas town of El Paso. When he decided to broaden his horizons, Svarzbein traveled East to study in college. Landing in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, he studied at Franklin and Marshall College, graduating with a degree in English. After spending a summer in Austin, Texas, he went back to F&M for a post-baccalaureate year where he studied painting, photography, and film, earning a minor in studio art. He then solidified his background in photographing by attending Hallmark Institute of Photography, a 10-month intensive photographic program, specializing in the art, science, and business of photography.

Svarzbein is a recipient of PDN.EDU's Merit award and an attendee of the Eddie Adams Workshop in the fall of '04, a highly selective photojournalistic workshop pairing emerging photographers with the industries best working photographers and editors. Since moving to New York, Peter has had two solo photography exhibits, and has been featured in various group shows.

He has photographed for The New York Times, Fortune Magazine, Der Spiegel, L'Express, People Magazine, Jet Blue as well as having shot covers for The Independent. He is a contributing editor for Heeb Magazine and has had his work shown throughout the magazine. He was the chief digital and film technician for World Picture Network and has printed for Jay Maisel.

Focusing on Judaic art from North Carolina and the region, the Rosenzweig Gallery features a permanent collection of Jewish ritual objects and presents rotating exhibits on Jewish themes including Judaica, religious books and prints, and contemporary art. The Gallery showcases exceptional Jewish art featuring both rising young talent and accomplished artists working in paint, sculpture, photography, fiber and ceramics. Hundreds of visitors attend exhibits including the very popular Annual Juried Art Show that attracts regional, national and even international submissions. Best of Show winners like Tina are offered a one-person show. Exhibits are available for display in communities throughout the state.

The Rosenzweig Gallery is located at the Judea Reform Congregation, 1933 W. Cornwallis Road, Durham. Additional Information can be found at www.jhfnc.org or by calling (919) 668-5839. Gallery hours are Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday morning.