Aja Moon’s Illuminated Legacy is a vibrant digital mosaic commissioned by Pepco for the newly built Mount Vernon Substation, celebrating the diverse individuals who have significantly impacted the Mount Vernon community and its surrounding neighborhoods. Through a masterful blend of digital color and portraiture, Moon highlights the dedication, achievements, and positive influence of these community pillars. By immortalizing them on the substation fence, she aims to ignite community pride, foster unity, and inspire reflection on the city’s rich cultural heritage.

 

Spanning an impressive 600 square feet, the mural is a dynamic composition featuring 32 individuals whose contributions have enriched the fabric of the community. Each meticulously crafted portrait stands as a testament to the subject’s impact. To bring the digital artwork to life in a three-dimensional format that met the project's specifications, Moon collaborated with manufacturers to create custom, accordion-style aluminum panels, which are protected by a graffiti-resistant coating.

 

The selection process for the mural’s subjects was a labor of love. Moon carefully curated a diverse group representing the city’s rich tapestry, including figures from activism, arts, music, religion, and sports. The mural’s layout is designed to be experienced from multiple perspectives, with the portraits of 16 women gracing one side and 16 men adorning the other.

 

Illuminated Legacy is a vibrant collage that celebrates the city’s rich history and diverse community. It is a testament to the power of art to inspire, connect, and commemorate, and it is Moon’s hope that this mural will serve as a lasting source of pride for the entire community.