Shaker Hair Wreath c. 1938

Helen Bronson made this Shaker Hair Wreath. It's an intricate design on paper, reflecting a unique aspect of Shaker artistry and community life. Living in a period when Shaker communities thrived on principles of simplicity, utility, and communal living, Bronson created this wreath that offers a glimpse into the complex identities within these societies. Hairwork, the practice of creating art from human hair, was a popular craft amongst Shaker women. A lock of hair could symbolize a bond or a memory. In a world that prized uniformity, personal expression found a unique outlet. The act of crafting such a wreath highlights the ways gender and community intersected. Though Shaker society valued celibacy, the creation of such wreaths suggests a deep appreciation for beauty and connection. This piece invites us to consider the tension between spiritual devotion and human affection.