Utah's North Capitol Building is now home to a striking new stained glass laylight, a colorful creation consisting of 89 panels and over 14,700 individual pieces. The work by Holdman Studios, as detailed by the Utah Governor's Office, pays homage to the state's rich heritage and is said to be enjoyed by the visitors flocking to Capitol Hill.
According to the Utah Governor's Office, Gov. Spencer J. Cox has framed the installation as a symbol of unity and pride for Utahns. He stated, "This stained glass laylight is a powerful reminder that Utah’s strength lies in our shared roots and our commitment to building a brighter future together." Each panel of the laylight is special, with one featuring materials hailing from all 29 counties of Utah, cementing a visual representation of the state's collective identity.
The artwork's significance extends beyond its aesthetic appeal, as it also captures the natural beauty and history of Utah, from the sego lilies to the blue spruces, from the Utahraptor to seagulls, honey bees, Kings Peak, and the Great Salt Lake. Senate President J. Stuart Adams conveyed to visitors a message of education through art, noting that the installation provides an opportunity for a deeper understanding of Utah's values and shared history.
The North Capitol Building, slated to open to the public in 2026, aims to be more than just a government structure. Speaker Mike Schultz described the stained glass as a testament to generational progress, affirming, "The new stained glass reminds us that we don’t just inherit the future — we build it, one generation at a time," as per the Utah Governor's Office. The expectation is for the building and its artwork to become a central hub for engagement, leadership, and reflection among Utahns.
