Rare Chinese tapestries on display throughout October in Steckline Gallery

Sep 30, 2026
A close up look at one of the artworks now on display for "Love, A Sister City" in the Steckline Gallery.
A close up look at one of the artworks now on display for "Love, A Sister City" in the Steckline Gallery.

The Steckline Gallery at Newman University will showcase “Love, A Sister City,” a collection of hand-embroidered tapestries from Kaifeng, China, on display throughout October.

The exhibition opens with an Art for Lunch event at noon on Thursday, Oct. 1, in the Steckline Gallery, featuring Professor of Education Huachuan Wen. Newman students who attend can enjoy a free pizza lunch.

A First Friday reception will follow from 5-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, in the gallery. All events are free and open to the public.

Wen (left) stands next to one of the artworks on display in the Steckline Gallery.
Wen (left) stands next to one of the artworks on display in the Steckline Gallery.

A rare cultural showcase

The exhibition, which is a collaboration with Wichita Area Sister Cities, offers a rare glimpse into traditional Chinese craftsmanship.

“We’re excited to share a special cultural treasure with our community,” said Shannon Johnston, chair of the arts and humanities division, assistant professor and interim director of the Steckline Gallery.

Johnston, interim director of the Steckline Gallery
Johnston, interim director of the Steckline Gallery

The centerpiece of the collection is an expansive embroidered screen that measures approximately 8 feet by 10 feet, which showcases the painting “One Hundred Horses.”

The intricate collection previously appeared at Mark Arts two years ago.

“If you missed these rare and beautiful works when they were exhibited at Mark Arts two years ago, now is your chance to see them,” the Wichita Area Sister Cities’ Facebook page said. “We invite you to experience this remarkable collection and celebrate the enduring cultural connection between Wichita and Kaifeng.”

About the Steckline Gallery

The Steckline Gallery is located inside the De Mattias Fine Arts Center on the Newman campus, 3100 McCormick. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. or by appointment.

For more information, email Steckline Gallery Director Shannon Johnston at [email protected].

"Love, A Sister City" in Steckline Gallery features an Art for Lunch and First Friday exhibition.
“Love, A Sister City” in Steckline Gallery features an Art for Lunch and First Friday exhibition.

Visit the Steckline Gallery

The Steckline Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.–4 p.m. or by appointment.

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