"It's the largest presentation of Moki's work in the United States to date," says Kelly Shindler, Executive Director of The Fabric Workshop and Museum.
The career retrospective features over 100 artworks and objects from the late Swedish visual artist and designer.
Shindler says Cherry's work spans from the 1960s until her passing in 2009. There are paintings, drawings and textile designs on view, including many colorful tapestries.
Mark Christman curated the exhibition to immerse viewers in Moki's art and life.
"She studied fashion design as a young woman," says Christman, Executive and Artistic Director of Ars Nova Workshop. "But a chance meeting with the American jazz trumpeter Don Cherry probably changed her trajectory quite a bit."
The two became partners in love and life, using Moki's art to transform performance spaces around the world.
"They created these audio/visual happenings," he says. "Bringing together music and visuals, costumes, theater, family."
The Fabric Museum also has a new exhibition from artist-in-residence Lisa Alvarado called, "Talismans for a Theater of Resilience."
"I think of them as objects that help with realignment, guidance or protection," says Alvarado.
She created the work in collaboration with the Fabric Workshop's team of artists.
Shindler says the workshop's team helps the artists in residence "explore new pathways in their work."
Alvarado has two fabric pieces on view, along with five kinetic sound sculptures.
"I normally work with large-scale abstract painting that I use in musical performances," says Alvarado, who plays harmonium in the ensemble, Natural Information Society.
Ars Nova Workshop is organizing live events to activate both spaces.
"Nothing brings people together like music," says Christman.
Shindler calls the works "vibrant" and "dynamic."
Cherry was an artist and musician, just as Alvarado is now.
"It's a beautiful connection," says Alvarado.
Both of those exhibitions are on view through April 12, 2026 at The Fabric Workshop and Museum.
It's located at 1214 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19107
Links:
Free Tickets at The Fabric Workshop and Museum
"The Living Temple: The World of Moki Cherry"
"Lisa Alvarado: Talismans for a Theater of Resilience"