Rainbow Flag

Gilbert Baker

1978

A sewn nylon rainbow flag made by Gilbert Baker in 1978 as a bold, visible emblem of gay pride and community.

Bright, saturated rainbow bands tumble down from a wooden staff—glossy, rippling nylon and neat stitched seams giving the banner both a handcrafted intimacy and a public, celebratory presence.

Baker's flag transformed a simple, portable design into a global emblem of LGBTQ+ visibility and solidarity, showing how visual design can forge collective identity and claim public space.

Palette

Art Terms

Design Investigating identity Popular culture Mass production Contemporary art Textile

Exhibitions

New Glory: New Designs for Flags

1976

Textiles U.S.A.

1956

Good Design

1952

Handmade Paper Prints and Unique Works

1976