Painting of State Capitol Architect Dedicated

A painting depicting Solomon Layton, architect of the Oklahoma State Capitol, laying the cornerstone of the building has been officially dedicated. Former State Senator Charles Ford, President of the Oklahoma State Senate Historical Preservation Fund, Inc., unveiled the painting during a ceremony in the Senate Chamber on Tuesday.

The painting was created by artist Christopher Nick, of Oklahoma City, and was sponsored by the Oklahoma Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, an organization dedicated to promoting public awareness, understanding and appreciation of architecture. The organization is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

“Solomon Layton was a part of the Cherokee Strip landrun in 1893. He designed commercial buildings in downtown Oklahoma City, 46 buildings for the Oklahoma City Public Schools, and some 16 courthouses throughout Oklahoma,” Ford said. “He also was the architect for the Skirvin Hotel, but without a doubt, his most prominent work is the Oklahoma State Capitol. This is an especially appropriate painting as both our state and AIA Oklahoma celebrate their centennials.”

Architects Solomon Layton and S. Wemyss Smith were awarded the contract for the building on January 7, 1911. Construction began on July 20, 1915. The cornerstone ceremony was held on statehood day, November 16, 1915. The building was completed on June 30th, 1917.

To view “Solomon Layton, Cornerstone of the Oklahoma State Capitol,” and other pieces of original art sponsored by the Oklahoma State Senate Historical Preservation Fund, Inc., go to www.oksenate.gov and select “Senate Artwork.”