Oklahoma Hall of Fame Class of 2014

Harold T. Holden, affectionately known as “H,” was a self-taught sculptor whose work captured the spirit of the American West. Born in Enid, Oklahoma, in 1940, Holden began his artistic journey while working as an art director in Houston. His passion for Western themes led him to sculpt and paint in his spare time, eventually transitioning to a full-time career as a fine artist.

Holden’s dedication to authenticity is evident in his sculptures, which often depict scenes from cowboy life. Notable works include “Boomer,” a monument in Enid that became the symbol of the Cherokee Strip and was featured on a U.S. postage stamp, and “Oklahoma’s Native Son,” a bronze statue of Will Rogers at Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City. His “We Will Remember” sculpture at Oklahoma State University honors the lives lost in a tragic plane crash involving the Cowboy basketball team. 

In recognition of his contributions to the arts, Holden was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2014. He also received the Governor’s Arts Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Oklahoma Sculpture Society. His legacy continues to inspire, reflecting a life dedicated to preserving and celebrating Western heritage through art.

To learn more about Harold T. Holden’s remarkable journey and artistic achievements, visit his Oklahoma Hall of Fame profile: