Madre Tierra

May 6 – July 7, 2026 at Holy Wisdom Monastery

In Holy Wisdom’s newest exhibit, Madre Tierra, artist Issis Macias invites viewers into an intimate, contemplative encounter with the natural world. Rooted in Macias’s cultural lineage – and in the Indigenous and Latin American understanding of Madre Tierra as a living presence and source of ancestral wisdom – the Spanish title affirms a matrilineal thread and an inheritance of strength, intuition, and reverence for the land. Please join us for the opening reception of this exhibit of abstract art which echoes the shifting rhythms of sea, sky and earth through layers of pigments, sweeping gestures and spontaneous pastel markings.

Artist – Issis Macias

Issis Macias is a self-taught artist and the daughter of Mexican immigrants. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Issis moved to the Madison area in 2016 where she continued her exploration of intuitive abstract art. Issis was named the 2025 Latina Artist of the Year and received the 2024 Micaela Salinas Artist Fellowship sponsored by Latinos Organizing for Understanding and Development.

Art Exhibits at
Holy Wisdom Monastery

The Benedictine Sisters of Holy Wisdom Monastery sponsor art exhibits every year as part of their mission. Usually held in the spring, summer and fall, these exhibits hang in the gathering area of the LEED-certified monastery building. Selected artwork is in keeping with the monastic environment and reflects the Benedictine values of beauty, balance, simplicity, contemplation, and reverence for creation.

This year, photographer Jennifer Peters has volunteered to be the monastery’s art curator. Jennifer feels a need to help other artists gain recognition for their work. “I’ve been very fortunate with my artistic endeavors. Ever since my own photography exhibit at the monastery in 2017, I have wanted to help other artists exhibit in this beautiful space.”

Gallery Dates & Hours

The exhibit is open to the public from May 6 – July 7, 2026.  Gallery hours are Tuesday-Friday, 8:00 am-4:30 pm (excluding holidays) and Sunday 10:00-11:00 am.

The art gallery at Holy Wisdom is located in the gathering area in the monastery building.

We hope you will visit our current art exhibit.