Shaker Influence on Art

The Shaker model of simplicity and worship has inspired many artists throughout the years. Several architects and furniture designers have drawn on Shaker designs for their art. Shakerism inspired other, less obvious, art forms as well. Composer Aaron Copland used the Shaker song “Simple Gifts” as the basis for his composition Appalachian Spring. This song also found its way into contemporary Christian worship through the song “Lord of the Dance.” Doris Humphrey, a pioneer of American modern dance and co-founder of Julliard School of the Arts, choreographed a dance based on the passion of Shaker worship. In more recent years, Tero Saarinen choreographed a dance entitled Borrowed Light based on Shaker ideas. As It Is In Heaven is only one of the major artistic pieces based on Shaker life.