Suspended from the ceiling, each sculpture represents an historical figure, embellished with words and symbols drawn from their respective writings and experiences. Hand-painted banners hang on every wall of the gallery with additional text and imagery that further elaborate on their unique stories.

“The exhibit demonstrates how far we have come as a country and how far we have yet to go,” added Nolan, who said Dill also features Mother Ann Lee, founder of the Shakers. “The purpose of Canterbury Shaker Village is to interpret Shaker life through exhibits, buildings, gardens, and programs, so this exhibit uniquely supports our mission.”

According to Dill, there is a personal connection to many of the people represented in her exhibit, which has been shown in galleries across the country. “These personas and their times stir something deep in my own family history and sense of self,” she said. “I was compelled to explore this period in America’s history when limited access to a diversity of written word ignited the bravery of these figures in response to their times.”