Art Treasures of the Oklahoma State Capitol has been nominated for two 2004 Oklahoma Book Awards. State Senator Charles Ford headed the project to document the original paintings and sculptures of the State Capitol. Senator Ford is president of the State Senate Historical Preservation Fund, Inc., which published the book. It was designed by Carol Haralson, and co-authored by Bob Burke, Betty Crow and Sandy Meyers.
“This book was a major undertaking, but in the end, the result was well worth it. It is filled with beautiful photographs depicting the art gracing the interior and exterior of the State Capitol. This art represents key aspects of our state’s history, our present and our future. Documenting these works makes it even easier for people to understand and enjoy,” said Senator Ford. The book features color photographs of more than 100 works of art at the State Capitol, as well as anecdotes about the history of the works and the artists who created it. “The State Senate Preservation Fund, Inc. commissioned more than 50 of the works represented in our book, so I am especially pleased to see this project get this recognition. But more than that, I think it is helping people to realize how much wonderful art there is to be found at the State Capitol,” said Senator Ford.
Art Treasures of the Oklahoma State Capitol was among six books nominated in the category of Design/Illustration and one of eleven nominated in the Non-Fiction category. The winners will be announced during the Oklahoma Book Award ceremony on Saturday, March 13th at the Petroleum Club in Oklahoma City.
For more information about the book, to: http://www.oksenate.gov/senate_artwork/art_treasures.html. All proceeds from the book will be used for the conservation, maintenance and commission of works for the State Capitol.
Oklahoma Senate
