Deconstructing the Minnesota Flag: An Exhibition by Luis Fitch.

Minneapolis artist Luis Fitch explores the symbolism and branding of the Minnesota state flag in his latest solo exhibition, Deconstructing the Minnesota Flag: A Design and Branding Exploration.

The exhibition, now open at North Hennepin Community College’s Joseph Gazzuolo Fine Art Gallery in Brooklyn Park, Minn., runs until mid-December. It showcases Fitch’s deep dive into the state flag’s controversial history and evolving identity, presenting eight large-scale flags that progressively strip away elements of Minnesota’s original design.

“This was pure art and pure exercise,” says Fitch. “To explore the symbolism, the history, and the cultural significance behind each design element.”

A Critical Look at Minnesota’s Visual Identity

Fitch has long contemplated the role of state emblems. His exhibition, planned well before his recent appointment as Chair of the State Emblems Redesign Commission, is a personal and artistic exploration rather than an official proposal for a new flag.

Through his eight iterative flag designs, Fitch removes different elements—from the Native man on horseback to the landscape, dates, and even the traditional blue background—challenging viewers to rethink what a state flag should represent.