The composition of Wall of Enlightenment is a kaleidoscope of various symbols, colors, and designs representing the Lakota (Sioux) culture. Top center of the mural is the Lakota saying: Unci Maka or Grandmother Earth. The bottom center is another Lakota saying: Wocekiye or prayer. The sun at the top center symbolizes peace and harmony. Within the center, a sun was painted to symbolize the Lakota sacred circle and medicine wheel.
To control sunlight shining through the doorway windows and reflecting off the mural, black construction paper was taped on the windows except to leave a 3 inch circumference which allowed sunlight to shine through and on the Sacred Sun which is located in the center of the mural. Sunlight always reaches the center of the Sacred Sun during the morning hours.
Wall of Enlightenment was a South Dakota Arts Council Artists in Schools & Communities Grant in partnership with St. Joseph’s Indian School in Chamberlain, South Dakota. Dave Meyer, art teacher and artist, work alongside his students in creating Wall of Enlightenment. St. Joseph’s Indian School, an apostolate of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart, partners with Native American children and families to educate for life mind, body, heart, and spirit.
