Oklahoma State Capitol
Art Collection
The Events
The art of the Oklahoma State Capitol depicts some of our state's most important events. Click on the links below to learn more about individual works of art and the historical Oklahoma events depicted in the works.
As Long as the Waters Flow by Allan C. Houser
As Long as the Waters Flow by Allan Houser refers to President Andrew Jackson's vow to Native Americans that they shall posses their land "as long as the grass grows and the rivers run."Beyond the Centennial by Carlos Tello
An extraordinary future," artist Carlos Tello has rendered an insightful, yet dynamic mural that reflects upon our distinct history, contemporary culture, and limitless future.Creek Council Oak Tree by Mike Larsen
The traditional "ceremonial ground" under this mature post oak tree was chosen by the Lochapoka clan of the Creek Indians as the place to begin a new life.Discovery and Exploration, 1541 - 1820 by Charles Banks Wilson
The first of the historic murals, Discovery and Exploration depicts famed Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado atop his armored horse, the Wichita Indians, and Antelope Hills.Frontier Trade, 1790 - 1830 by Charles Banks Wilson
The years 1790 to 1830 were marked by a rising interest in Oklahoma territory. In the mural Frontier Trade, Wilson depicts a bustling scene of rising commerce.Indian Immigration, 1820 - 1885 by Charles Banks Wilson
Indian Immigration captures the atmospheric tension and civil unrest as 67 different Native American tribes were forced into the region. Already a home for nomadic hunters, the Native American settlers would become implemental in the development of the state.Non-Indian Settlement, 1870 - 1906 by Charles Banks Wilson
Non-Indian Settlement illustrates the years 1870-1906 in which Unassigned Lands were open to all in the Land Run of 1889.President Teddy Roosevelt Signing Statehood Proclamation by Mike Wimmer
“Oklahoma is now a state,” declared Theodore Roosevelt, President of the United States, as he signed the statehood proclamation at 10:16 o’clock on the morning of November 16, 1907.Pro Patria by Thomas Gilbert White
Pro Patria by Thomas Gilbert White was commissioned by Bartlesville oil man Frank Phillips to commemorate the tragedies and triumphs of World War I.Pro Patria: The State Guards the Memory of Her Dead by Thomas Gilbert White
Pro Patria by Thomas Gilbert White was commissioned by Bartlesville oil man Frank Phillips to commemorate the tragedies and triumphs of World War I.Pro Patria: The State Mourns the Memory of Her Dead by Thomas Gilbert White
Pro Patria by Thomas Gilbert White was commissioned by Bartlesville oil man Frank Phillips to commemorate the tragedies and triumphs of World War I.The Guardian by Enoch Kelly Haney
The Guardian embodies the diversity within the proud and strong population of Oklahoma while serving as a reminder of our tumultuous times. It stands prominently atop the Oklahoma State Capitol dome where it was lifted on June 7, 2002.The Power of Hope by Enoch Kelly Haney
The Power of Hope depicts a mother and child; the mother is strong in the face of adversity. She will always protect her child and meet whatever lies ahead with dignity and determination.The Spirit of Heritage by Enoch Kelly Haney
The Spirit of Heritage depicts an Indian mother carrying her infant in a cradle-board. The imagery is representative of the rich culture and traditions which strengthen and enrich not just the western tribes, but all of Oklahoma.The Will to Live by Enoch Kelly Haney
The Will to Live depicts a young warrior, and in the background of the relief is a buffalo, a native symbol of endurance. At one time, the buffalo was nearly extinct, but ultimately not only survived, but thrived.Tribute To Range Riders by Constance Whitney Warren
Constance Whitney Warren’s intricately detailed sculpture of a bucking bronco and a steadfast cowboy in wool chaps was the first sculpture installed on the grounds of Oklahoma’s State Capitol.With the Vision of an Eagle by Enoch Kelly Haney
In With the Vision of an Eagle depicts a tribal leader in the foreground and a soaring eagle placed behind him at eye level. The eagle is a symbol of vision, foresight and leadership, all of which are embodied in the depiction of the tribal leader in the forefront of the relief.