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This vibrant mural featuring poet Amanda Gorman brightens the side of a historic townhouse in Washington, D.C., capturing both the spirit of the city and the power of hope. Painted by artist Kaliq Cussons (@KaliqCussons), the piece immortalizes Gorman’s radiant smile and commanding presence, wrapped in a warm palette of red, gold, and white — mirroring the D.C. flag unfurling behind her. The scene is more than a tribute; it’s an anthem, proudly proclaiming a quote from Gorman herself: "For there is always light. If only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it."
Set against a backdrop of beautifully preserved brick and stone rowhouses, the mural seamlessly integrates with the architecture, reminding viewers that the past and the present coexist on these historic streets. As the golden hour light kisses the building's textures, the mural seems almost to glow, elevating Gorman’s inspiring message even further. It’s a modern landmark — one that radiates resilience, creativity, and unity in a city defined by its constant evolution.
Below the mural, a charming storefront adorned with twinkling lights and colorful flowers offers a cozy counterpoint, drawing passersby into a scene of community and vibrancy. The image captures a perfect D.C. moment: urban, creative, alive with stories, and quietly powerful.
Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or an art lover seeking meaning in the cityscape, this mural speaks to the soul of Washington — a place where history is always being written in bold, brilliant colors.
Another piece from the Winnersh Walls.
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The artists are @thesqwr & @izthewiztmb
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Photographer: Ibrahim D Photography (Facebook)
The vibrant Friendship Archway in Washington, D.C.’s Chinatown stands as a symbol of cultural unity and international partnership. Captured here on a cloudy afternoon, the photo showcases the iconic arch in its urban context—anchoring a busy intersection where heritage and modernity converge. Located at H and 7th Streets NW, this monumental gate is one of the largest ceremonial archways outside of China, and it marks the entrance to a historic neighborhood that has seen waves of transformation over the decades.
Commissioned in 1986 through a partnership between Washington, D.C., and its sister city Beijing, the arch was designed by Chinese artisans and built with traditional materials and techniques. It features over 7,000 glazed tiles, upturned eaves, and intricate wooden carvings painted in rich reds, blues, greens, and golds. The Chinese inscription at the top, “Zhōng Huá Mén” (中华门), translates to “China Gate,” greeting both locals and visitors as they cross into this cultural enclave.
In this photograph, the arch is framed by a lively streetscape that blends architectural styles. To the left, red-brick buildings housing restaurants and small businesses reflect the historic commercial heart of the neighborhood. On the right, modern glass and steel buildings contrast sharply, echoing D.C.'s ongoing urban renewal. Beneath the arch, city buses and cars navigate the intersection, a reminder that this landmark is not only symbolic—it is woven into the daily rhythms of the city.
The street activity brings the image to life. A Metro entrance peeks out just beneath the archway, inviting commuters underground. A pedestrian waits to cross, a bus roars by, and bikes cruise down the painted lanes. While rooted in tradition, the arch remains very much a part of a modern and evolving city.
Washington’s Chinatown has experienced demographic shifts over time. Though the number of Chinese American residents has declined, the area still holds strong symbolic value for the broader Asian American community in the region. The archway remains a focal point for Lunar New Year celebrations, cultural festivals, and everyday pride. It also serves as a visual and cultural anchor for visitors exploring the city’s downtown.
This image celebrates not just the craftsmanship of the arch, but also the layered identity of D.C.—a city where heritage sites live alongside cutting-edge commerce. It’s a moment frozen in motion: cars blurring past, a bus loading passengers, pedestrians paused at the crosswalk, and the ever-watchful arch standing firm over it all.