The Visual Culture of Sacred Harp
Berlin bass singer Sebastian Borckenhagen made T-shirts and tote bags for the All-Day Singing in August 2025.
This video explains the process of screenprinting with collaborators in Stuttgart, along with a general introduction to shape-note singing.
IG: @sebastian_borckenhagen
sebastianb.org
h/t @caroclamanda.bsky.social
At the “Burnt Church” in Lakeland, Georgia, the 15 March singing lacked a basket to collect leader cards. Shawn Taylor of Atlanta quickly folded a photocopy of sheet music from the Sacred Harp to accommodate the need.
Origami and photo by Shawn Taylor.
Several singers have license plates related to shape note singing. “FASOLA” is a common plate, but some singers also have references to specific songs. I’d love to hear if you know of any plates that are references to tune names or to the texts of shape note poetry. I have yet to find any to photograph, but I think they’re out there.
blare coughlin of Montréal has designed a striking poster to promote the Sacred Harp All-Day Singing there in July.
A bird of music under the heavenly vault rises above the city of Montréal to bring peace in the form of olive branches. A warm glow spreads across multiple panels. with the sun and the moon, the city bordering the St Lawrence, and an open book. Hymn texts complete the scene and add context.