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2023 ​Featured Capitol History Gateway Program Virtual Exhibit

Master Penworks of Tom Stefopoulos: The Hellenic Artist of the Lovejoy Columns​

Athanasios (Tom) Efthimiou Stefopoulos was a factory worker, railroad man, commercial artist, and a champion penman. Art was his first love but pursuing this was difficult for a young immigrant in an adopted country where he did not even speak the language. In 1945, he was employed by the Spokane, Portland & Seattle Railroad to work as a crossing watchman under the Lovejoy Ramp of the Broadway Bridge in Portland, Oregon. It was here that the artist created the iconic “Lovejoy Columns." This exhibition considers the range of Stefopoulos' art, from pen drawings to the murals that graced the Lovejoy Columns. His style is a unique blend of calligraphic lines and Art Nouveau, and his themes span Ancient Greek philosophy to contemporary world events. In style and in theme, Stefopoulos blended a myriad of influences, a result of a life lived in multiple places and among many people. Despite a life that was characterized by movement and synthesis, however, the Lovejoy Columns represent a sense of belonging to specific place—in this case, to Oregon. Stefopoulos' art gives insight into how the artist envisioned himself in this new home. 

This exhibit, presented by Hellenic-American Cultural Center and Museum, was awarded a Ca​pitol History Gateway Exhibit Sponsorship in 2022, which is funded by the Oregon State Capitol Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization.

Please explore the panel below and arrow on the right to advance the panels. ​

Reopening in 2025: The Capitol History Gateway Welcome Center Experience - We Are Oregonians 

Picture of BannersOregon's multiple cultures have mingled to create a singular state – one that is recognized for its vision and its boldness around the world. 

Located on the first floor of the Capitol, this exhibit highlights some of the diverse cultural traditions that have influenced our state. The exhibit also showcases information about other museums and resources in Oregon that expand our understanding of these cultures. This exhibit will reopen in 2025 when the historical portion of the building is open to the public. 

Capitol Art Collection

The astounding Capitol Art Collection was the first funded by Oregon's Percent for Art legislation, another of the state's groundbreaking laws. Grab a self-guided tour brochure at the information kiosk and discover some of the Capitol's fascinating art treasures. The collection features work by over 150 of Oregon's finest artists, and most of the pieces are accesible for viewing in the legislative office wings. A catalog containing photos and descriptions is available for purchase at the Capitol Store.

Preview the Capitol Art Collection [pdf].​​

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Did You Know?

Over 1,200 Oregonians have participated in selecting art for public buildings like the capitol.