Earlier this year, we shared a peek into the art that enriches our campus and reflects the beauty of Lakota (Sioux) culture and Catholic faith. Today, we’re thrilled to share even more pieces that deserve the spotlight. These works are more than decoration — they represent our values, our history and the spirit that guides St. Joseph’s Indian School.
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha located in Nagel Business Office
This stunning buffalo hide mural honors Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, the first Native American saint. Born in 1656, Kateri survived smallpox, which scarred her face and claimed her family. Despite her hardships, she embraced Catholicism, dedicating her short life to prayer and teaching the Gospel. After her death at age 24, witnesses said her facial scars vanished — a miracle of healing and holiness.
In Daniel Long Soldier’s mural, Saint Kateri is shown walking gracefully through a vibrant forest, her fringed dress flowing with movement. Painted on buffalo hide — traditionally used to record important stories — the piece beautifully symbolizes self-giving. Just as the buffalo sustained life, Kateri gave her own in loving service to others and to God.
Ožáŋžaŋglepi located in Walkway between School and Central Offices
As you pass through the walkway that connects our school to Central Offices, don’t miss the breathtaking stained glass series Ožáŋžaŋglepi by Ron Zeilinger. These windows are mockups for the set installed in the Our Lady of the Sioux Chapel, representing the Seven Sacred Lakota Rites.
- East Window: Wiwáŋyaŋg Wačhí — Sundance
A sacred summer rite of renewal and humility tied to the moon’s soft light. - Center Window: Haŋbléčheya — Vision Quest
A soul’s yearning cry to the heavens for wisdom and blessings. - West Window: Eternal Life
It features a glowing cross like the chapel doors, symbolizing Christ’s light and sacrifice.
This series beautifully fuses Catholic and Lakota imagery, reminding us of the harmony possible when cultures listen to and honor each other.
Unnamed located in School Building Entrance
This terrazzo installation, created by Brother Bonaventure, blesses students daily as they enter the school. Drawing from the Lakota gift of the Four Winds: east (wisdom), south (growth), west (water) and north (endurance). The piece combines natural forces with spiritual power. Each wind carries a Gospel — Matthew, Mark, Luke and John — out into the world.
Brother Bonaventure once wrote:
“It is my faith and prayer that the Noble Sioux people that have borne the cross of suffering will one day bring America back to God and the Good News of Great Joy that marks us all new in the Resurrected Christ.”
This piece is both a blessing and a mission.
Native St. Joseph, Ikčé Wičháša Saint Joseph located near Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center Parking Lot
This striking steel sculpture by Ron Zeilinger honors Saint Joseph as both the protector of Jesus and an advocate for justice — perfectly echoing the mission of Saint Joseph’s Indian School. Saint Joseph is shown walking with Jesus as a young boy, their matching postures and the hand on Jesus’ shoulder showing guidance, trust and love.
The staff adorned with eagle feathers is a powerful blend of Catholic and Lakota symbolism. The sculpture’s sharp lines and earthy patina reflect Lakota geometric patterns and the sacred pipe, grounding the piece in faith, culture and community.
And that’s just the beginning! These four pieces are a testament to the vibrant art surrounding and inspiring us at St. Joseph’s Indian School. Each work is a conversation of Lakota heritage and Catholic faith and a visual reminder of our motto: We serve and teach. We receive and learn.
Stay tuned as we continue exploring more incredible artwork across campus. There’s so much more to share!
Learn more about St. Joseph’s Indian School by visiting www.stjo.org.
These are soon beautiful , that’s another good idea , is to send some of the kids drawings to the many friends that help St. JOSPHEN ‘s , I would love to see some of the kids drawings sent to me , or colored pictures , the ones you show are very beautiful , but I know the drawings that the kids do on paper are just as beautiful. Thank you for showing these ,and God bless all.