Bison statues arrive at smithsonian, completing cross-country journey
Two bronze bison, crafted by paleoartist Gary Staab, have arrived at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History after a week-long, 1,800-mile road trip across the country. The statues, a powerful symbol of American history, now stand guard at the museum's National Mall entrance.
Artistic and cultural significance of the bison
The journey, which began on March 11th at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, culminated on March 19th with the installation of the life-sized sculptures. Staab, who spent 14 months creating the pair, emphasized the bison's profound connection to the nation's narrative. “The American Bison is a fascinating project because it has an incredible story, and it’s a story that is part of America’s history,” Staab said in a video ahead of the trip. The project’s significance extends beyond mere aesthetics; it’s a deliberate act of remembrance and cultural exchange.
The bison, once roaming freely across much of Colorado, hold deep spiritual and ecological importance for Native American tribes. The Fort Garland Museum & Cultural Center notes their integral role in the state’s history, serving as a vital food source since the Paleo-Indian period. The animals’ near extinction in the late 1800s underscores the fragility of ecosystems and the power of conservation efforts.
Chief Calvin Standing Bear (Sicangu and Oglala Lakota) led a prayer ceremony for the bronze bison upon their arrival. Chasing Hawk Standing Bear offered a buffalo prayer song, and Jeff Iron Cloud burned sage, creating a poignant blend of ceremony and art. This gesture highlights the collaborative spirit underpinning the project, uniting artistic vision with Indigenous cultural heritage.
The statues’ installation coincides with two new museum exhibits. “Bison: Standing Strong,” opening May 7th, explores the species’ resilience, while “Imagining Bison Display Cases,” set to open May 21st, delves into artistic and scientific representations of the animal through various media. These exhibits provide context and depth to the bronze sculptures, enriching the visitor experience.
Each bronze bison weighs 2,500 pounds, with the tallest reaching nine and a half feet. The Smithsonian’s decision to feature these works is more than just an addition to their collection; it's a recognition of the bison’s enduring legacy and a testament to the power of art to connect us to the past.
The arrival of the bison statues at the Smithsonian isn’t simply an arrival; it's a statement. A reminder of a vital part of American identity, now permanently positioned to greet generations of visitors.