The Oklahoma City Convention Center has added a major work to its collection: Howdy, a 17’x20’ mural by local artist Nick Bayer. Funded through the City of Oklahoma City’s 1% arts ordinance for public projects over $1 million, this piece highlights a unique city partnership.
Howdy hangs prominently on the first-floor lobby wall, greeting all who enter. Painted with acrylic latex on custom cotton duck canvas, the mural is secured with aircraft cables connected to ceiling anchors and an aluminum support pipe.
The mural showcases 16 iconic images of Oklahoma culture and history, arranged radially like a windmill on the state’s landscape. Its style draws inspiration from Western wear embroidery found on boots and shirts, blending tradition with vibrant color.
Installation required the canvas to be hand-raised with a pulley system and then secured to three ceiling anchor points.
More art installations are planned in the coming months, continuing the Convention Center’s mission to celebrate Oklahoma’s creative spirit.
