The drawings the Shakers got from God
Jackson Arn | The New Yorker | 7th October 2024
The Shakers led famously unadorned, disciplined lives. Their simple, elegant furniture is celebrated while their art – notably drawings – deserve greater attention. Made exclusively by women and inspired by spiritual visions, drawings were gifted to other communities. They were not intended for display, pride and ownership both being sinful. Contrasting with their severe lives, these drawings are “ravishing” and brimming with colour – somewhat akin to the godless outside world. If you have paywall problems, another review is here.