Here It Is

Sometimes a beloved pop culture motif makes its way into the design repertoire of talented Native artists. I was thrilled to see such a motif on a belt in the Heard North’s permanent collection. Those who still travel I-40 east from Flagstaff and west from Holbrook always see a familiar sign outside Joseph City: the iconic black rabbit with the words “Here It Is.”

The signs refer to Jack Rabbit Trading Post in Joseph City. An enormous jack rabbit sits outside the store with a saddle which countless young behinds have burnished to a dull shine. Rabbits aren’t prized much except as food, but they are acknowledged tricksters like Coyote. The black rabbit design is related to Mimbres rabbit outlines seen on ancient pottery.

Detail of "Route 66 Tourism Belt," by Gail Bird and Yazzie Johnson, 1995. In the Heard Museum North., Detail of “Route 66 Tourism Belt,” by Gail Bird and Yazzie Johnson, 1995. In the Heard Museum North. One of the many signs for Jack Rabbit Trading Post, in Joseph City, AZ One of the many signs for Jack Rabbit Trading Post, in Joseph City, AZ Take a ride of the giant rabbit Take a ride of the giant rabbit

 


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