Hays Sculptor Pete Felten Honored with 2026 Governor's Arts Legacy Award

The 92-year-old artist's iconic limestone sculptures grace the Kansas Capitol and beyond.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:54am

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A bold, abstract composition of stark black silhouettes and geometric shapes in high-contrast red and white, conceptually representing the towering limestone sculptures created by the renowned Kansas artist Pete Felten.The humble, selfless artistry of Pete Felten's iconic Kansas limestone sculptures is celebrated with the 2026 Governor's Arts Legacy Award.Hays Today

Pete Felten, a 92-year-old sculptor from Hays, Kansas, has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Governor's Arts Legacy Award for his remarkable contributions to the state's artistic landscape over the past seven decades. Felten's towering limestone sculptures, including four iconic portraits in the Kansas Capitol rotunda, have cemented his legacy as one of Kansas' most celebrated artists.

Why it matters

Felten's recognition highlights the importance of supporting and celebrating local artistic talent in Kansas. His selfless decision to not sign his Capitol sculptures, stating 'This is Kansas' work, not mine,' exemplifies his deep respect for the state and its people. The Governor's Arts Awards aim to foster creative expression, economic growth, and a stronger sense of community through the arts.

The details

Felten, a native of Hays, began sculpting Kansas limestone in 1957 after serving in the U.S. Navy. His most renowned works include the four 8-foot-tall, 2,000-pound limestone portraits in the Kansas Capitol rotunda, featuring Amelia Earhart, William Allen White, Arthur Capper, and Dwight Eisenhower. Felten's meticulous craftsmanship and use of Silverdale limestone, which he deemed the finest in the state, showcase his unwavering dedication to excellence.

  • Felten began sculpting Kansas limestone in 1957 after his Navy service.
  • Felten's four iconic Capitol sculptures were installed in 1981.
  • Bronze plaques were added to Felten's Capitol sculptures in 2024, finally giving him credit for his work.
  • Felten was awarded the 2026 Governor's Arts Legacy Award.

The players

Pete Felten

A 92-year-old sculptor from Hays, Kansas, who has dedicated nearly seven decades to transforming the state's limestone into breathtaking works of art.

Governor Laura Kelly

The Governor of Kansas, who praised the thriving arts scene in the state and the importance of supporting creativity to foster intergenerational connections, economic growth, and a stronger sense of community.

Lieutenant Governor David Toland

The Lieutenant Governor of Kansas, who highlighted the positive impact of artists on the state's economy and culture, and praised the diverse artistic talent in Kansas.

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What they’re saying

“This is Kansas' work, not mine.”

— Pete Felten, Sculptor

“The Kansas Governor's Arts Awards celebrate artists, organizations, and communities that enhance the state's quality of life and foster creative expression.”

— Governor Laura Kelly, Governor of Kansas

“We must continue to support and elevate the diverse artistic talent in Kansas, as their work brings pride and prosperity to our state.”

— Lieutenant Governor David Toland, Lieutenant Governor of Kansas

What’s next

The 2026 Governor's Arts Awards ceremony will take place on May 15, 2026, where Pete Felten and other honorees will be celebrated for their contributions to the arts in Kansas.

The takeaway

Pete Felten's recognition with the 2026 Governor's Arts Legacy Award underscores the importance of supporting and celebrating local artistic talent in Kansas. His selfless dedication to his craft and his humble refusal to sign his iconic Capitol sculptures exemplify the power of art to inspire, unite, and transform communities.