Art and History in the Ohio Judicial Center: A Visual Tour

This book showcases the architectural detail and 200 Art Deco- and Beaux Arts-style murals, reliefs, and mosaics of the Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center in Columbus, Ohio, using nearly 100 photographs taken by Richard W. Burry. It is the first book to celebrate the building's art and provide historical context.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Kent State University Press

Nearly a century after its construction, the Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center in Columbus, Ohio, is finally receiving the artistic recognition it deserves in this richly illustrated book. In the early 1920s, when plans for the Ohio Judicial Center building were initially conceived, American culture and politics were in a period of transition and turbulence. The country emerged from World War I, moved through the Roaring Twenties, and then sank into the Great Depression. To counter the effects of this economic crisis, public art was often commissioned for government buildings, including the Ohio Judicial Center, which was completed in 1933 and showcases work from 12 artists.

Featuring more than 100 photographs taken by Richard W. Burry, Art and History in the Ohio Judicial Center is the first book to celebrate the building's impressive architectural detail and highlight its 200 Art Deco- and Beaux Arts-style murals, reliefs, and mosaics. Burry tells the story of the public art in the Ohio Judicial Center and provides illuminating historical context, helping the present-day reader to understand the building's art not only from a contemporary perspective but also through the eyes of those living almost a century ago.

The Ohio Judicial Center building was designed by renowned architect Paul Cret, who was influenced by the Art Deco and Beaux Arts styles of the 1920s. The building's exterior features a stunning marble facade, with intricate carvings and sculptures that depict various legal and judicial themes. The interior is equally impressive, with a grand lobby that leads to a series of ornate chambers and courtrooms.

One of the most notable features of the Ohio Judicial Center is its 200 Art Deco- and Beaux Arts-style murals, reliefs, and mosaics. These artworks were created by a team of talented artists, including Louis Comfort Tiffany, John LaFarge, and Paul Manship. The murals and reliefs depict scenes from American history, legal cases, and judicial proceedings, and they provide a visual narrative that reflects the building's purpose and significance.

The Ohio Judicial Center also features a series of sculptures and fountains that were created by renowned artists such as Alexander Calder and George Segal. These artworks add to the building's aesthetic appeal and provide a sense of tranquility and beauty to the surrounding environment.

In addition to its artistic significance, the Ohio Judicial Center is also a valuable historical resource. The building was completed in 1933, during the Great Depression, and it was a symbol of hope and resilience for the people of Ohio. The construction of the building was a testament to the power of public art and the importance of government buildings in promoting public welfare.

Art and History in the Ohio Judicial Center is a must-read for anyone who is interested in art, history, or architecture. The book provides a comprehensive and engaging account of the building's artistic and historical significance, and it is filled with stunning photographs and detailed descriptions of the artwork and architecture.

In conclusion, the Thomas J. Moyer Ohio Judicial Center in Columbus, Ohio, is a remarkable landmark that is finally receiving the artistic recognition it deserves. This richly illustrated book showcases the building's impressive architectural detail and highlights its 200 Art Deco- and Beaux Arts-style murals, reliefs, and mosaics. The Ohio Judicial Center is a valuable historical resource that reflects the power of public art and the importance of government buildings in promoting public welfare. Art and History in the Ohio Judicial Center is a must-read for anyone who is interested in art, history, or architecture.

Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781606354650