Artist Chooses Fabric Art to Focus on Women in the Bible

"Biblical Women," an exhibition of story quilts by artist Lee Porter, will be on display at the Smith College Alumnae House, 33 Elm Street, from Jan. 22 to March 30 with an opening reception and gallery talk from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 23. The Alumnae House gallery is open to the public, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and there is no charge for viewing the exhibit or attending the reception/talk.

In this exhibit, using textiles and applique and quilting techniques, Porter depicts several scenes of women from the Bible. According to Porter, women are often relegated to background roles in traditional interpretations of the Bible, while the men assume leadership and decision-making roles. Through her fabric vignettes, these roles are pulled into the forefront and women are seen engaging in activities central to their communities, such as naming children, celebrating victories and mediating disputes.

Porter, who has a master's degree in theology as well as a background in art history and studio art, says she was inspired to create "Biblical Women" by the recent feminist trend in Biblical scholarship that is putting greater emphasis on the role of women in the Bible. She is a 1960 graduate of Smith College.

Contact: Marti Hobbes, mhobbes@smith.edu

January 18, 2001