This exhibition is the culmination of a Masters in Theology (creative works) through Laidlaw College by Miriam Jessie Fisher exploring the lives of two maligned women and two marginalised women in the Bible. It explores their lives and holy experiences through poetry, spoken word and stitched textiles. The stitched textiles comprise ten separate pieces with each woman receiving at least two pieces. The exhibition features all the stitched works and some of the poetic works.

The works invite contemplation about the lived realities of joy and despair of four ancient women. They chronicle their experiences of divine grace and personal difficulties and trauma.

This exhibition was first displayed in Christchurch in March 2022 and was met with much acclaim:

“Thank you immensely for remembering and preaching the whakapapa and talanoa of the faithful of God – who happen to be women!”

“What an incredible testimony to women in scripture you have created. It is moving and meaningful. Such a beautiful blend of deep, interesting, important theology and beautiful, moving creativity. I feel blessed and challenged by this experience.”

“I love that you have given a voice to the silenced… The women are given voices at last.”

Some of the poems are available to listen to via QR codes. If you would like to access this element please bring an internet-capable device and headphones. Works are not for sale. You are very welcome to come and spend time in the space in contemplation or conversation. Miriam will be at the exhibition on the dates and times below and would love to kōrero about her work and answer any questions you may have. The building is accessible.

Exhibition Open Days and Times:

You're invited to drop in anytime during the times below. No booking required.

Friday 12 August: 9am – 4pm, with poetry reading and kōrero 12.30-1.30 pm

Saturday 13 August: 1pm – 4pm

Sunday 14 August: 1pm – 4pm with poetry reading and kōrero 3-4 pm

Monday 15 August: 9am – 4pm

Tuesday 16 August: 9am – 2pm

About Miriam

Miriam Jessie Fisher is Lecturer in Education at Laidlaw College. Based in Ōtautahi/Christchurch, her teaching and research interests include creativity and the arts in educational contexts and engagement between theology, the arts, and the imagination. Her recent work focuses on recovering the voices of women in the Bible through poetry, textiles, and whakapapa (genealogy), as well as creative theological expression that honours the context of Aotearoa New Zealand and all the richness of bicultural partnerships, including the use of Te Reo Māori and New Zealand Sign Language. Miriam is married to Mike and they have two teenage sons.