The Artisan Fibres partnership was initiated over twenty years ago by a group of professional textile artists who wished to support one another in a retail venture. It has proved to be a very successful enterprise. Individual partners have come and gone over the years but the partnership has survived and flourished.

Only one of the original partners is still a member, Ria Van Lith, who is a weaver, spinner and knitter. The other current partners are Valerie Osborn, weaver; Pippa Davies, silk dyer and embroiderer; Barbara Wendelken, patchworker; Alison Wilson, embroiderer.

The partners produce a wide range of exclusive hand made garments and accessories based mainly on natural fibres such as wool, cotton, linen and silk but often use manufactured fibres as well to enhance the texture and appearance of their work. Custom made items are also undertaken.

As well as the partners there are a number of suppliers who extend the range of goods on offer from the gallery. All the products and items are either made or sourced in the South Island of New Zealand.

The gallery, itself, is a bright cheerful place to shop, where at least one of the partners is on hand at all times to meet you and discuss your requirements. It is in a high traffic area of the Christchurch Arts Centre in the building which houses the Boulevard Shops and Galleries.