Shaker Man's Coat c. 1936

Ingrid Selmer-Larsen made this study of a Shaker Man's Coat, likely with watercolor on paper. Selmer-Larsen seems interested in the interplay of surface and structure that defines the garment. The smooth, dense wool gives the coat its form, while the tailoring shapes the cloth to the body. It's easy to imagine the labor involved: shearing sheep, spinning yarn, weaving fabric, cutting, and sewing. Each step relies on practiced skill. The Shakers, known for their commitment to simplicity and functionality, believed in making things well, which was a form of worshipping God. They valued utility and durability above all else. Garments like this coat reflect those values in every stitch. Selmer-Larsen clearly admired those qualities, studying the object with sensitivity. This artwork invites us to consider the artistry inherent in everyday objects, challenging us to rethink the boundaries between craft and fine art.