Artist Barbara Ernst Prey (b. 1957) has an affinity for light – specifically, capturing its fleeting luminosity in both built and natural environments. Borrowed Light is a body of watercolor prints and originals depicting scenes from the Village, first painted and exhibited in 2019 that now returns alongside photographs by Prey’s son, Austin Prey. Austin Prey served as the editor for the book, “Barbara Ernst Prey: Mass MoCA Chronicle of a Museum Commission” and maintains a professional career in Manhattan as a writer and communications / content professional.
Taking its title from the Shaker principle of “borrowed light” – the incorporation of windows and skylights into interior walls to refract light from the outside in – Prey’s exhibition is inspired by visits across three seasons, during which she immersed herself in the building, historic artifacts, and landscape of the site. Her voice brings new consideration to the visual and haptic experience of this site – historically and today.
As we celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Round Stone Barn – an iconic symbol of the Shakers’ progressive approach to design, innovation, architecture, and farming – these thoughtful studies by Barbara Ernst Prey and Austin Prey feel especially poignant. Their work is a reminder that to think, create, and build innovatively – with soul and spirit – is what strengthens our connection to community from its roots into the future.
Exhibited in the Brick Poultry House. Included with admission to Hancock Shaker Village.
Open through the end of the 2026 season.