Extending the full width of the east wall over the staircase is the great mural painting, “Westward,” an idealized representation depicts early pioneers traveling through Iowa. Pioneers are led across the West by Spirits of Enlightenment, symbolized by the air-borne female holding an open book, and Civilization, symbolized by similar figures sowing grain. The Spirits of Stream and Electricity, holding a steam engine and electric generator, respectively, follow the prairie schooner.
The concept design for “Westward,” 1905 is in the collection of Des Moines Art Center.
Latitude & Longitude
41.591531, -93.603746
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Location Description
On the east wall over the interior staircase between the first and second floors of the Iowa State Capitol
Art Type
Mural
Media / Materials
Oil on Canvas
Year Completed
1905
Collection
Long-Term, More Public Art in DSM
Credit