Star Spangled Selections from the Elinor L. Hallowell Collection of Patriotic Native American Art

June 23, 2026

Star Spangled Selections from the Elinor L. Hallowell Collection of Patriotic Native American Art

In honor of America’s semi-quincentennial (250th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence), a selection of the Elinor L. Hallowell Collection of Patriotic Native American Art is available for purchase in La Galeria museum shop (Fridays and Saturdays | 6:00 – 9:00 pm) or via Tohono Chul’s collections corner.

In United States history, the American Flag has been infused with a great many ideologies, serving as a medium for solidarity, personal expression, and social commentary. As a hallmark of freedom and unity, the Flag waved over a young country during the inaugural singing of America’s anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner”. As an emblem of inclusion and expansion, the stars and stripes have undergone 27 iterations, each reflecting the diversity of a growing nation. As a symbol of controversy and restlessness, elements of the Flag have often been appropriated in creative and expressive ways during the mid- to late-twentieth century and on.

*Carved and painted teepee with stars and stripes by Unknown Navajo Artist*

*Patriotic steer by Apache artist I.M.R. Arkadie*

*Carved and painted wooden Navajo woman riding a motorcycle by Navajo artist Delbert Buck*

But perhaps its most powerful symbolic form is that which is determined by individual experience. The values, beliefs, and events that have shaped our perception of the world are represented in various items of material culture. Through a variety of patriotic Native American artworks donated to Tohono Chul by Elinor L. Hallowell, these objects provide a unique view of the American Flag and the inextricable nature of symbolism and the human experience.

This diverse collection includes works created by Sioux, Navajo (Diné), Iroquoise, and other Native American artisans, all of whose motivation has sprung from different experiences and events in American history. Since the U.S. Centennial in 1876, the Flag’s bold design and vibrant colors have offered a platform from which to express the complexity of patriotism, sovereignty, and enduring traditions amongst indigenous people.

*Mild steel feather on a triangular base, painted with United States flag motif by Hopi artist Bryson Nequatewa*

*Silver belt buckle with inset beaded United States flag by Navajo artist Timothy Tsosie*

*Six-pointed star pin cushion whimsy, filled with sawdust by Unknown Iroquois Artist*

Shop the Collection

The Elinor Lamont Hallowell Collection of Patriotic Native American Art

Lidded Makah Basket

Lidded basket with United States flag design by Unknown Makah Artist

Star Spangled Selections from the Elinor L. Hallowell Collection of Patriotic Native American Art