Claudia Gould Takes the Helm of Shaker Museum as It Transforms for New Era

Claudia Gould Takes Charge of Shaker Museum

In a bold move, the Shaker Museum has announced the appointment of Claudia Gould as its new Executive Director, marking a significant milestone in its rich 75-year history. Known widely for her transformative leadership at the Jewish Museum in New York, Gould brings a wealth of experience to the role as the museum embarks on an ambitious new chapter defined by a $30 million expansion designed by the acclaimed Selldorf Architects. This expansion aims to revitalize the museum's mission and engage contemporary audiences more deeply in the Shaker legacy.

As the Shaker Museum prepares to unveil a striking new flagship space in downtown Chatham, Gould is eager to connect the principles of Shaker design, egalitarianism, and community with today’s social narrative. "Shaker Museum occupies a unique role in the global cultural landscape," she remarked. "Its permanent collection of Shaker material culture continues to inspire artists and designers and reflects values that are particularly relevant in our current time."

A Legacy of Innovation

Having served as the Director of the Jewish Museum from 2011 to 2023, Gould's tenure was marked by a transformative renovation of the space, substantial growth of its endowment, and the introduction of dynamic, interdisciplinary programs. She has a proven track record of curatorial innovation and institutional revitalization, demonstrated through her previous roles at significant cultural institutions, including the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia.

Paul Cassidy, Chair of the Board at Shaker Museum, expressed enthusiasm for Gould's leadership at this crucial juncture, stating, "Claudia's experience in enhancing engagement and expanding institutional stories will be pivotal as we embrace this new era for the museum."

Engaging the Community

The new museum expansion will serve not just as a repository for artifacts but as a vibrant community hub. With a design ethos reflecting the simplicity and utility inherent in Shaker culture, the new facility will include exhibition spaces for the museum’s vast collection of over 18,000 items. In addition to showcasing the collection, the museum will prioritize public engagement, providing educational programs and spaces for community dialog surrounding social history and contemporary culture.

Gould’s first months in her new role will focus on advancing strategic planning and fundraising efforts to ensure the museum’s transformation aligns with both its mission and the broader cultural currents shaping the arts landscape in America today. During the planning phase, the museum has already been active, arranging pop-up exhibitions showcasing some of the foremost talents in the contemporary art scene, including prominent figures like Katie Stout and Emily Adams Bode.

Upcoming Exhibitions

In the fall of 2024, the Shaker Museum will host an exciting exhibition titled "CRADLED," curated by Academy Award-winning actress Frances McDormand and conceptual artist Suzanne Bocanegra. This exhibit will explore key Shaker values through the innovative use of adult-sized cradles, interpreting these as symbols of care and community within the Shaker philosophy.

Moreover, in June 2025, the traveling exhibition "The Shakers: A World in the Making" will open at the Vitra Design Museum in Germany, before moving to prominent art institutions in Philadelphia and Milwaukee. These exhibitions underscore the museum's commitment to preserving Shaker culture while pushing its relevance into contemporary discourse.

Architecting Change

The architectural design by Selldorf Architects aims to harmonize with Chatham’s downtown while echoing Shaker principles. The new structure will feature spaces that foster creativity and encourage dialogue among visitors. Recognized as key players in the field of architecture, Selldorf Architects have previously enhanced esteemed cultural sites and are expected to leave a lasting creative touch on the Shaker Museum.

The construction project, bolstered by generous funding from the Empire State Development and the New York State Council on the Arts, positions the Shaker Museum as a significant cultural destination in New York State. This initiative represents a deliberate attempt to breathe new life into the museum, ensuring it thrives as a beacon of cultural heritage and contemporary artistic expression for years to come.

As the Shaker Museum celebrates its 75th anniversary, it stands at the cusp of a new era, poised to honor its historical roots while embracing contemporary relevance. With Claudia Gould at the helm, the Shaker Museum is set to leave a profound impact on both local and global scales, inviting communities to engage with Shaker culture in innovative and meaningful ways.