Take an Inside Look at Dignity of Earth & Sky
The South Dakota Hall of Fame is honored to share that 1987 Inductee Dale Lamphere has gifted the copyright licensing of his iconic sculpture, Dignity of Earth & Sky, to the South Dakota Hall of Fame. This generous contribution allows the Hall to help share the legacy of this powerful work with audiences around the world, while also providing ongoing support for our mission.
What This Gift Means
Effective with the signatures of the Copyright Assignment being provided to the South Dakota Hall of Fame (SDHoF) by Sculptor and SDHoF Inductee Dale Lamphere and his wife, Jane Murphy, the SDHoF owns the copyright to the image of Dignity. Per the Agreement, select uses will continue to be permitted for Dale Lamphere, as well as the use by the State of South Dakota for the Dignity License Plates. Other requests for use of the Dignity image in derivative works should be directed to the South Dakota Hall of Fame, along with a description of the proposed use, by email. A specific request form will be available soon. All proposed items must honor the intent and aesthetic of Dignity. The SD Hall of Fame will only approve items that respect indigenous women and the culture, tradition, and community that Dignity is meant to honor. Items must be true to character, likeness, and the spirit of the work. No item shall diminish the image or reputation of Dignity.
About Dignity of Earth & Sky
Just a short drive from the SD Hall of Fame’s Visitor & Education Center, Dignity of Earth & Sky stands as a powerful tribute to the Lakota and Dakota peoples. This 50-foot-tall stainless steel sculpture, designed by South Dakota's Artist Laureate, Dale Lamphere, depicts an Indigenous woman in traditional Plains attire holding a star quilt over her shoulders. Star quilts are a symbol of respect and honor in Native American culture.
The statue was a generous $1 million gift from Norm McKie and his wife, Eunabel, of Rapid City, commemorating South Dakota's 125th anniversary of statehood. Erected in September 2016, Dignity is situated on a bluff between exits 263 and 265 on Interstate 90, near the Chamberlain Lewis & Clark Welcome Center & Rest Area at mile marker 264.4. While the Welcome Center operates seasonally from mid-May through October, the statue itself is accessible year-round, offering visitors a place for reflection and appreciation of Indigenous cultures.
Planning Your Visit
When visiting Chamberlain, consider starting your day at the South Dakota Hall of Fame to immerse yourself in the stories of the state's influential figures. You’ll also have the chance to learn all about the creation of Dignity in our very own exhibit, which details the creation and inspiration of the statue. Don’t forget to stop by our gift shop for Dignity-themed keepsakes to ensure you remember your trip for years to come.
Afterward, make your way to the Dignity sculpture to experience its awe-inspiring presence and the panoramic views of the Missouri River. Dignity is uniquely breathtaking throughout the day, as the quilt’s 128 stainless steel diamonds feature color-changing pieces that glitter in the sun and move with the wind, creating a rippling effect. At night, LED lights cause the diamonds to illuminate the dark sky, casting a peaceful glow that’s easily visible from the interstate.
A visit to our Visitor & Education Center offers more than just information; it’s an experience that deepens your connection to South Dakota’s rich history, vibrant culture, and the remarkable individuals who have shaped its legacy. Standing in the presence of Dignity will leave you inspired, reminding you of the strength, spirit, and beauty that define our state. We look forward to welcoming you and hope your visit to both locations is meaningful and memorable.
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