Philadelphia Exhibit Showcases Contemporary Influence of the Shakers

The Institute of Contemporary Art explores the historic religious sect's lasting impact on design, art, and culture.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 10:23am

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A new exhibition at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia, titled "A World in the Making: The Shakers," examines the history, spiritual philosophy, and contemporary influence of the Shaker religious sect. The exhibit features Shaker furniture, textiles, and other artifacts, as well as new works by seven artists inspired by the Shakers' emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and the connection between work and spirituality.

Why it matters

The Shakers, a Christian sect that reached the height of their influence in the 19th century, are now nearly extinct, with only three individuals identifying as Shakers today. However, their design philosophy and approach to living and working continue to resonate, influencing contemporary art, furniture, and other creative fields. This exhibition provides an opportunity to explore the Shakers' lasting impact and how their values and practices continue to shape modern life.

The details

The exhibition features a wide range of Shaker artifacts, including furniture, textiles, and tools. Visitors can see the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail that characterized Shaker design, such as a side table made from five different wood species and a wheelchair adapted from a rocking chair. The exhibit also includes new works by seven contemporary artists, such as a textile workstation by Danish designer Chris Liljenberg Halstrøm that embodies the Shaker belief that work is a form of prayer.

  • The exhibition "A World in the Making: The Shakers" opens this weekend at the Institute of Contemporary Art.
  • The exhibition will be on view until August 9, 2026.

The players

Institute of Contemporary Art

The art museum hosting the "A World in the Making: The Shakers" exhibition, in collaboration with the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Vitra Design Museum in Germany.

Shoshana Resnikoff

Co-curator of the "A World in the Making: The Shakers" exhibition, from the Milwaukee Art Museum.

Chris Liljenberg Halstrøm

A Danish furniture designer and artist who created a textile workstation for the exhibition that embodies the Shaker philosophy of work as prayer.

Johanna Burton

The director of the Institute of Contemporary Art, who explained the reasons for hosting the Shaker-focused exhibition.

Hallie Ringle

Co-curator of the "A World in the Making: The Shakers" exhibition, from the Institute of Contemporary Art.

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What they’re saying

“I like to think of the furniture as a gateway drug to the Shakers.”

— Shoshana Resnikoff, Co-curator, Milwaukee Art Museum (WHYY)

“Hands to work, hearts to God.”

— Ann Lee, Shaker founder (WHYY)

“I think most artists work like that. We create something to put into the world to somehow, hopefully, make a better world.”

— Chris Liljenberg Halstrøm, Danish furniture designer and artist (WHYY)

What’s next

The exhibition "A World in the Making: The Shakers" will be on view at the Institute of Contemporary Art until August 9, 2026.

The takeaway

This exhibition showcases the lasting influence of the Shakers, a religious sect that valued simplicity, functionality, and the connection between work and spirituality. Through their innovative design, entrepreneurial spirit, and progressive artistry, the Shakers left an indelible mark on American culture that continues to inspire contemporary artists and designers.