sand painting

American  

noun

1. the ceremonial practice among Navaho and Pueblo Indians of creating symbolic designs on a flat surface with varicolored sand.

2. the designs so made.

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sand painting British  

noun

1. a type of painting done by American Indians, esp in the healing ceremonies of the Navaho, using fine coloured sand on a neutral ground

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Etymology

Origin of sand painting

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900

Example Sentences

At the in-person community altar, visitors will find traditional sand painting and displays created by members of the presenting community, including an altar in Michoacan style.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 28, 2021

There is the concert, which includes an elaborate onstage sand painting, and a quote proffered from one of the Brontes.

From Salon • Jul. 25, 2017

On Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., the monks will present a number of cultural events, including sacred chants, dances and sand painting.

From Washington Post • Feb. 23, 2014

Although stylistically their work is different, they often made art together and shared many of the same interests, including American Indian sand painting, modern architecture and James Joyce.

From New York Times • Sep. 6, 2012

He sat in the center of the white corn sand painting.

From "Ceremony:" by Leslie Marmon Silko