From afar, commuters see the Cornerstones of History mural depicting important activists, artists, and symbols that were instrumental in transforming the social fabric of Northeast Washington D.C. As one approaches the intersection where this FŌTERA® terrazzo public art piece is installed as part of a fountain, the central images sharpen into four monumental portraits honoring Duke Ellington, Bessie Smith, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Rosa Parks. The curved wall forming the mural makes these central figures appear to burst out of the background. When the water feature is activated, the water flows on either side of the mural, reminding the viewer that these historical figures embody change and renewal.
Authorizations for this project were granted by Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute for Self-Development, the Estate of Mercer K. Ellington, The King Center, AP – Wide World Photos, Inc., and CMG Worldwide, Inc.
