American Symbols

An exploration of the graphic history of the flag, the eagle, the shield, Uncle Sam, and Lady Liberty as used in craft, folk art, and design as well as Native American art, trade and popular art. The more than 75 fascinating items on display are owned by San Francisco resident Kit Hinrichs, an internationally renowned graphic designer and partner in Pentagram Design. Hinrichs has spent over 40 years seeking out intriguing objects to add to his remarkable collection. The Museum is honored to feature a portion of it in this exhibition.

American symbols - especially the flag - are so prevalent in our visual culture that we often fail to notice their presence or think about the roles they play. Now, as candidates for office openly debate US military involvement abroad, it is especially appropriate to contemplate how such symbols have been used in the past and present to express the sentiments of Americans in times of war and peace, and in situations of celebration and protest. In addition to conveying overt or subliminal messages, they have been used as graphic elements to adorn a wide variety of decorative and utilitarian objects and—in the spirit of American entrepreneurship—to market goods. Above all, these symbols have been used as concrete representations of the artist’s or maker’s identification as American and as markers of patriotism and national pride—or righteous indignation. Contemporary artists in particular have integrated these symbols into works that present provocative interpretations, encouraging thoughtful dialogue.

Beginning with the flag made by his great-great-great aunt Ida Pepperkorn in 1865, Kit Hinrichs has spent over 40 years seeking out intriguing objects to add to his remarkable collection. As a member of a profession where creating graphic symbols is an important aspect of his work, he appreciates the challenge of coming up “with visual icons that evoke immediate recognition, emotional power, and universal meaning.” As a collector, his passion is the joy of discovering new and wonderful examples of American symbols that deepen his appreciation of our history, and the resourcefulness of the “designer” that resides in all of us, from artist to average citizen.

Admission Costs:
General Admission $5.00
Seniors (62 and over) $4.00
Members Free
Youth to age 18 Free.