Nebraska Impact

The Geniuses and Mother Earth on the Rotunda Floor are circled by various prehistoric animals. To accurately depict these animals, Meière relied on Erwin H. Barbour, a paleontologist and the Director of the University of Nebraska Museum. Barbour had artistic talents and provided detailed sketches of prehistoric life on the plains. These sketches were thought to be lost forever. However, some were found in 1982 and donated to the Capitol archives.

The Genius of Air The Genius of Air depicts a man riding on a cloud flying through the air. Birds cross in front of and behind the Genius of Air.v

The three large murals were painted by Kenneth Evett and added to the Capitol in 1956. They represent Industrial Enterprises, Intellectual Works, and Humanitarian Works, and are titled “The Labors of the Hand”, “The Labors of the Head” and “The Labors of the Heart.”

Labors of the Heart Labors of the Heart depicts 5 individuals all taking part in an artistic endeavor. Artist Kenneth Evett created all three labor murals.

Native American Thunderbirds are represented on each of the sides of the gold-tiled dome. Thunderbirds represent rain, integral to all life.

The exterior of the Nebraska Capitol symbolizes the history of Western civilization and embodies the "Spirit of the Law as shown in history." It is richly decorated with significant historical events and notable figures.

Thunderbird - Nebraska Capitol Art Experience Native American Thunderbirds are represented on each of the sides of the gold-tiled dome. Thunderbirds represent rain, integral to all life. exterior of the Nebraska Capitol symbolizes the history of Western civilization and embodies the “Spirit of the Law as shown in history.” It is richly deco...