The documentary looks at the cultural legacy of America’s most successful utopian society: the Shakers. The Shakers were artisans, whose maxim ‘beauty rests on utility’ inspired the creation of minimalist furniture and architectural designs that influenced modern functionalism. Known to each other as the United Society of Believers, they lived a simple life, with an emphasis on work. Yet a profound spirituality imbued every aspect of their lives. They wrote work songs and spiritual hymns of exquisite beauty and danced to the point of ecstasy during religious meetings. The film shows images of the Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village in New Gloucester, Maine, the last active Shaker community in existence.
A Chair Fit for an Angel
2014
General Audiences
75 min.
Documentary
Canada, Finland
Colorido
Raymond St-Jean
Raymond St-Jean
Jean-François Lord
Philippe Ralet
Michel Ouellette
Cine Qua Non Media
Marie Odile Demay
38