Share this Public Art Selection

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

Get Directions
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

Credit

Courtesy State of Iowa