Another Trip to the USA / Dignity of Earth and Sky

High on an eastern bluff overlooking the Missouri River near the town of Chamberlain, SD, stands the most amazing monument; a 15m tall 12 tonne sculpture of a Native American woman with a traditional Lakota Star quilt composed of 128 stainless steel diamonds unfurling behind her.

It was commissioned to commemorate South Dakota’s 125th year of statehood. 

Dignity of Earth and Sky was designed and created by South Dakota born Dale Lamphere who has built 60 public sculptures around the USA including the Arc of Dreams in Sioux Falls.

But it is more than just a tourist attraction.

It appears the monument has been accepted by the Native American population. A group of Lakota Sioux on their annual pilgrimage to the Wounded Knee battle site have stopped there. There was also a two day gathering of Native American women there to celebrate the power and importance of women in Native culture.

It is certainly an impressive piece.

Many environmental aspects needed to be considered with the design.

Structural engineering measures ensure Dignity will withstand 200km/hr winds and special automotive coatings will make sure the colours remain true for decades.

Absolutely worth stopping for.