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Oregon State Legislature Artwork and Exhibits

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Artwork & Exhibits

2023 ​Featured Capitol History Gateway Program Virtual Exhibit

The Nez Perce in Oregon: Removal and Return

"The Nez Perce in Oregon: Removal and Return" puts the oft-told story of the Nez Perce War and Chief Joseph into national and Oregon context. The Nez Perce today are descendants of tribal peoples living in the intermountain west for millenia. Recent archeological findings at Coopers Ferry on the Salmon River put human habitations back to 16,000 years ago; there is a Nez perce name for the site. The Nez Perce, who befriended and helped Lewis and Clark on their journey, had lands taken by treaty and by homesteader encroachment--and finally by war. ​Nez Perce were subjected to boarding schools, allotment, and other assimilationist efforts. But the people are resilient, and the Nez Perce Wallowa Homeland, a non-p​​rofit with tribal and local representatives, has a dance arbor and a Longhouse on 320 acres near the town of Wallowa; Tribal Fisheries is restoring salmon runs in Eastern Oregon; and the Nez Perce Tribe owns land in the Wallowa. 

This exhibit, presented by the Josephy Center for Arts and Culture, 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].​​