Glimpses of Iowa’s Capitol: Its History, Art, Architecture and Restoration

Join former state restoration painter, Rosa Snyder, as she divulges untold stories and reveals hidden treasures of Iowa’s most recognized landmark. When the building was constructed back in the 1870s-1880s almost every one of the 120 rooms was decorated with intricate designs on the ceilings and walls. Over time many of the motifs were covered with paint. Starting in the 1980s, it was decided to uncover and recreate these elaborate designs. During this presentation, several aspects of restoration will be explained in detail: the discovery process, necessary tools, varieties of paints, types of gold leaf and different step-by-step application techniques. Additionally, a number of before and after photos of several rooms will be revealed and photos of one-of-a-kind artworks created by well-known artists and placed throughout the building shared. The audience will learn about little known historical facts and view photographs of areas not normally seen by visitors.

Funded project of Humanities Iowa, a state affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.