Exhibit Overview

Seeing Mary Magdalene with Different Eyes refocuses the traditional narrative of Holy Week—the final days of Jesus Christ’s earthly life—and challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of Mary Magdalene and her significant role in early Christianity.

The exhibit features five original commissioned artworks by Lázaro Ceballos Fernández as well as prints by contemporary artists Laura James, Janet McKenzie, and Sue Ellen Parkinson. Together, these works examine three Gospel stories and provide a counterpoint to the traditional focus of Holy Week, which centers on Judas’ betrayal, Peter’s denial, and the disciples’ flight. Instead, the exhibit centers on the anointing of Jesus, in which he promises that the anointer will be remembered throughout the world (Mark 14:9); the women who accompany Jesus and witness the crucifixion (all Gospels); and, finally, Mary Magdalene proclaiming the resurrection to the disciples (John 20:18).

The online exhibit includes a video recording of the opening lecture, highlighting Beth Maczka’s research on Mary Magdalene. Mirroring the wall panel in the physical exhibit, the digital version also invites viewers to share their reflections on who Mary Magdalene is. The feedback will be collected and incorporated into the exhibit’s website to foster further discussion among participants.

Seeing Mary Magdalene with Different Eyes is made possible by the Vanderbilt Curb Center’s Creative and Inquiry Grant, Vanderbilt Divinity School’s Carpenter Program in Religion, Gender, and Sexuality, Religion in the Arts and Contemporary Culture Program, and the Vanderbilt Divinity Library. The exhibition is curated by Beth Maczka, a VDS Alumna 2023, and Charlotte Lew, Divinity Library Digital Projects Coordinator, with technical and production support from Carla Beals, Library Design and Brand Manager.