Governor Kim Sigler
(1947-1949)

1950
Painted by John Coppin
Oil on Canvas

Though the Capitol’s portrait collection contains four pieces by John Coppin, this portrait of Governor Kim Sigler stands out as one of the more unusual works on display. Here, Sigler is pictured towering over the outside of the Capitol building, set against the backdrop of a bright blue, cloudy sky. Coppin plays with the horizon line, lowering it to make the sky more prominent. A plane is pictured behind the governor – a nod to the fact that he was also a pilot.

Sigler’s broad shoulders and serious expression as he gazes directly ahead communicate a steadfast focus on his work and Michigan’s future. The governor’s face is realistic and shows signs of age, though there is a smoothness to his skin that adds an idealized aspect to his likeness. The Sigler’s colorful tie acknowledges his reputation as a well-dressed, flamboyant individual. The entire painting has a hazy, dreamlike quality to it, aided by the use of bright blues and pinks in the sky. Along with portraits, Coppin was known for designing covers for AAA Motor News magazine. Many of his covers feature creative angles and colors; it is likely that this portrait of Sigler was influenced by Coppin’s work on magazines.