Maira Kalman Captures the Capital

The October installment of Maira Kalman’s charming blog for the New York Times, “In the Pursuit of Happiness,” is set in Washington.  Lucky us!  The post, entitled “E Pluribus Unum,” depicts the Capitol Building, the Hart Senate Office Building, and a cast of Hill characters including Senate pages, elevator operators, and tram drivers.  Kalman even illustrates members of congress, including Rosa DeLauro, Jack Reed, and Howard Coble.

I love visiting the Capitol Building, and there are many words I would use to describe it, but normally “whimsical” would not be on the list.  Kalman, however, focuses on quirky details to convey a mood of lighthearted optimism.  She writes that “the floors are polished to the point of ecstasy” and “fresh-faced, super-polite” pages rush around helping out.  In addition to Kalman’s illustrations, there are some fantastic photos:

In addition to political pups, lofty quotes above restroom doors, and cafeteria diners in porkpie hats, Kalman’s illustration of a bathtub in the Capitol basement is icing on the quirky cake:

Kalman’s work is refreshing given that the usual tone accompanying the Capitol Building is one of historic gravitas.  And, considering the acrimony surrounding the health care debate, among other things, it is a well-timed reminder that “e pluribus unum.”

Earlier:  New Installment of Maira Kalman’s “And the Pursuit of Happiness”