ODOL unveils public installations commissioned through the Oklahoma Arts in Public Places Program in collaboration with the Oklahoma Arts Council
The Oklahoma Department of Labor (ODOL) is honored to unveil a new series of public artworks commissioned through the Oklahoma Arts in Public Places program in collaboration with the Oklahoma Arts Council. This series, titled "Oklahoma’s Laborers," features eleven original oil paintings that honor the Oklahomans working in industries our agency helps regulate, including welding, elevators, amusement rides, and construction safety.
Installed throughout ODOL’s main office in Oklahoma City, the paintings reflect our mission while offering a visual tribute to the laborers who keep our state running safely and efficiently. The response from staff and visitors alike has been overwhelmingly positive—and it’s easy to see why.
Lucas Simmons
These three 24” x 36” oil paintings on linen, by Oklahoma artist Lucas Simmons, are striking in both technique and emotion. Simmons’ masterful rendering of the human form and expert use of chiaroscuro (the interplay of light and dark) suggest the works of Italian Baroque painter Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio.
From the wispy smoke trailing down from a welder working overhead to the tension in the wrench-wielding arm of the elevator inspector—these paintings are rich with movement and detail. The elevator inspector and overhead welder hang on opposite sides of ODOL’s Administrative Court Room, while the third, featuring a welder bent over their work, hangs outside Labor Commissioner Osborn’s office. The latter is particularly captivating from a distance, gradually revealing more detail as the viewer draws closer.
To explore more of Lucas Simmons' work, visit his website: lucassimmonsart.com.
Carlos Barboza
These two 20” x 30” oil paintings on linen are filled with the energy and joy of Oklahoma’s fairs and carnivals. Artist Carlos Barboza, known for his beautiful murals throughout the state, uses vibrant colors and implied motion to perfectly capture the frenetic spirit of amusement rides.
One can almost hear the music, bells, and whistles, smell the funnel cakes and corn dogs, and blink at the flashing lights. And yet, amid the whimsy, Barboza’s foreground figures—a pair of amusement ride inspectors—underscore the ODOL’s important role in making sure rides are operated safely. The paintings hang side-by-side in the agency’s Conference Room and serve as both a nostalgic celebration and a powerful reminder of our mission to ensure “safe fun” for all.
Want to see more of Carlos' vibrant murals and art pieces? Check out his portfolio: carlosbarboza.com
Juan Barroso
Juan Barroso’s six oil paintings (four vertical 24” x 36” and two horizontal 36” x 24” canvases, all on linen) highlight the quiet beauty of everyday labor. Each piece transforms an ordinary worksite into an arresting image of strength, skill, and precision.
From the interesting patterns created by stacked lumber to the beautifully refracted light seen through protective plexiglass, Barroso captures details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Even the variations of cool blues as a worker pries open a five-gallon paint can are depicted with care and artistry. Importantly, Barroso ensures that each subject is properly equipped with personal protective equipment (PPE), further reflecting ODOL’s commitment to safety in the workplace.
Four of the vertical paintings line ODOL’s main hallway, offering accessible views to staff and the public. The remaining two hang along a secondary hallway adjacent to the Break Room.
To view more of Juan Barroso’s artwork, visit juanbarrosoart.com.
ODOL’s Commitment to Art and Public Service
As a proud participant in the Oklahoma Arts in Public Places program, ODOL believes that art belongs in public spaces—especially those that serve the public. These commissioned works are not just decorations; they are a tribute to the people who form the backbone of Oklahoma’s economy and infrastructure.
We invite the public to stop by our offices and view the artwork in person. We’d love to show you around—after all, any time spent appreciating art is a good time.
📍 Visit us at 409 NE 28th St, 3rd Floor, Oklahoma City, OK 73105
For more information on the Art in Public Places program, visit: www.arts.ok.gov/our_programs/Art_in_Public_Places
