The Visual Culture of Sacred Harp
While constantly singing about life and death certainly merits a “skull” motif, the enfolding Ivy seems to be a sly reference to the new 2025 Edition of the Sacred Harp, heralded by trumpeting angels.
Poster design by Tom Tian.
Note, added 4 May 2026: As discussed with the artist in Portland OR, the foliage represents grape leaves, rather than ivy.
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.
Publicity poster by Holly Taylor for all-day singing in New Orleans, 31 Jan & 1 Feb, 2026.
A “peaceable kingdom” menagerie appears to have gathered to sing from a tune book in a local building. The somber border looks more like a graveyard, an appropriate New Orleans setting.
This particular weekend event will morph from a traditional all-day format on Saturday to a “Queer Gathering” on Sunday, welcoming all the varied participants to join in mutual support and celebration.
Are they trying to wake the dragon?
