Giant sculpture pays tribute to indigenous women

I have no intention of going anywhere near the US while it is being run by Agent Orange. 

I am, therefore, most unlikely to find myself in South Dakota. 

If I did, perchance, I would probably want to see this giant stainless steel sculpture, which was highlighted this week as a hidden gem by a former colleague. 

It is called Dignity and was created by artist Dale Lamphere to honour the women of the Sioux Nation.

The 15-metre plus artwork gazes across the waters of the Missouri River. 

During the day, the South Dakota winds brush the diamonds in her star quilt, causing blue shades to twinkle in the sunlight. At night, she stands illuminated. 

It is said the more than 100 blue diamond shapes move in the wind "like an Aspen leaf".

The Dignity statue is described as "a stunning combination of art and history". 

You'll find her located on a bluff between exits 263 and 265 on Interstate 90 near the small town of Chamberlain (takes a quick look at Google Maps). 

The giant piece honours the cultures of the Lakota and Dakota people and is a highlight of the Native American Scenic Byway.

Norm and Eunabel McKie of Rapid City announced their gift of Dignity to the state of South Dakota in 2014, in honour of the 125th anniversary of South Dakota statehood.

"Dignity represents the courage, perseverance and wisdom of the Lakota and Dakota culture in South Dakota," says the artist. 

"My hope is that the sculpture might serve as a symbol of respect and promise for the future."

The US could certainly use a little dignity right now.