ArtistSteven Weitzman
Cornerstones of History
Date2006
MediumReinforced FOTERA® Concrete Terrazzo
Dimensions6 × 32 ft. (182.9 × 975.3 cm)
Credit LineDC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, Commissioned Project
Object numberDCCAH2006.256
ClassificationsMurals
Locations
- Starburst Intersection Plaza (Bladensburg Rd & Benning Rd NE)
DescriptionThe “Starburst Plaza” was a complicated junction of six roadways-H street NE, Florida Avenue NE, Bladensburg Road NE, Maryland Avenue NE, Benning Road NE, and 15th Street NE. In 2005, transportation planners recommended modifications to the intersection to join existing traffic islands and redirect traffic around the future plaza, therefore creating a much more peaceful, green, and attractive atmosphere. The DCCAH commissioned local artist Stephen Weitzman to contribute to the revitalization and economic growth of this area by painting a mural, which he entitled “Cornerstones of History.” The mural depicts Duke Ellington, Bessie Smith, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Rosa Parks, all of which, like the Plaza will be, were instrumental in a sort of transformation.
