The Sun Symbol in Art

Stories about artistic representations of the Sun, Moon, and Stars can be found in many cultural traditions worldwide. These traditions see the Sun as more than just a Happy Face.

Following are examples of different artistic views of the Sun as expressed by ancient and contemporary cultures.

The traditional sun symbol is made up of: a circular diskrays radiating out from the diskfacial feature on the disk

In Medieval Europe the sun was often depicted as a FACE surrounded by rays

European farmers attached woodenSun symbols to their gates for hundreds ofYears. This one is from 18th century Austria.

The god Mithras represented light, truth and justice to the ancient peoples of Asia Minor, 52-117 A.D.

In 16th century France this emblem appeared as a symbol of power, justice and truth.

Sun medallion decorating a 2nd century B.C. sanctuary housing a sacred relic of Buddha.

This prehistoric sun symbol can be found in New Zealand, Spain, Asia, Asia Minor, South America and Australia as well as Arizona.

Hopi Indians believe the Sun is the emissary of the Great Spirit, without which all life on Earth would perish.

Pueblo IndiansSun Symbol

Pueblo IndiansSun Chief

Assignment:

Draw a traditional sun symbol. Use a

polished crayon technique.

Step 1

Draw a disk (circle) in the center of a square of paper. Leave room for the rays.

Step 2

Draw eyes, mouth, etc. Do you want to show an emotion? Happy, sad, angry, etc.

Step 3

Draw interesting rays or layers of rays.

Step 4Elaborate your sun symbol with decorations.

Step 5Color the sun symbol with a thick layer of crayons. Don’t be afraid to use unnatural colors. For example: Cool colors might be used for a sad sun.

Step 4Use small piece of paper towel to polish the layer of crayon to a gloss.

Criteria:

DiskFacial featuresRaysCraftsmanship