The Michigan State Capitol is home to a remarkable collection of gubernatorial portraits, including four painted by artist John Coppin (1904–1986). This virtual exhibition takes a closer look at Coppin’s work, highlighting how his relationships with his sitters shaped the outcome of each portrait.

As you explore, you will see how Coppin’s attention to lifelike detail, personality, and pose created portraits that go beyond likeness to capture the character of Michigan’s governors.