sand painting

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.

sand painting

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of sand painting¹

An Americanism dating back to 1895–1900

Example Sentences

To the Navajo, it represented a whirling log, a sacred image used in healing rituals and sand paintings.

From Seattle Times

Beneath his feet was an enormous sand painting.

From Literature

Sometimes, noticing how Yoakum’s colors sink under their own weight, I almost thought I was looking at a sand painting tipped up on its side.

From New York Times

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

An array of succulents in woven yarn holders and a Navajo sand painting over the fireplace reveal her love of the desert and its influence on her.

From Los Angeles Times