The Future Of Commemoration Is Not Written In Stone
In the summer of 2023, the inaugural exhibition of Beyond Granite, entitled Pulling Together, presented a dynamic series of art installations on the National Mall designed to create a more inclusive, equitable, and representative commemorative landscape. Met by widespread critical acclaim, this inaugural exhibition helped bring new stories and new perspectives to the nation’s most iconic commemorative space.
The Beyond Granite initiative is led by the Trust for the National Mall in partnership with the National Capital Planning Commission and the National Park Service, and is generously funded by the Mellon Foundation.
“…The National Mall provides space for expressions of democracy, national mourning, and celebration. With ‘Beyond Granite,’ the Mall dazzled as a space for outdoor art. It's a joy to see untold stories unfold on the Mall.”
— Lonnie G. Bunch III
Secretary of the Smithsonian
Beyond Granite: Pulling Together
In the summer of 2023, this pilot exhibition brought special works of art, performances, and programs to the National Mall. It was the first curated outdoor exhibition in the history of the National Mall—and a powerful demonstration of what’s possible when we open our imaginations.
The Big Idea
Beyond Granite creates a more inclusive, equitable, and representative commemorative landscape on the National Mall.
The Pilot Exhibition
Beyond Granite: Pulling Together was the first curated outdoor exhibition in the history of the National Mall.
Your Perspective
What did you think about Beyond Granite: Pulling Together? What should the future of the initiative look like?
In the News
Art on the Mall: American Diversity on Display
September 10, 2023
For over a century, the monuments on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. have inspired us to witness, remember, revere. But now we’re invited to ring, to sing, to swing.
6 Ways to Make New Monuments for the National Mall
September 2, 2023
“Beyond Granite” shows that the National Mall can host more than sepulchral statues and war memorials in marble and granite. It can be vibrant and inclusive and contemporary.
A groundbreaking exhibition on the National Mall shows monuments aren't set in stone
August 28, 2023
These new monuments look very different from the familiar imposing white monoliths or bronze presidents in thoughtful repose.
The Story of Black Resilience and Joy
August 27, 2023
Baltimore native brings attention to the fight for desegregation with interactive exhibit on the site of the March on Washington.
Recent Announcements
Beyond Granite: Pulling Together Exhibition Closes on the National Mall / September 21, 2023
As the Beyond Granite inaugural exhibition closed, the partners offered gratitude for all who helped make it possible—and announced their commitment to bringing future iterations to Washington, D.C. Read More
Beyond Granite: Pulling Together Convening Highlights and Replay / August 23, 2023
Explore powerful conversation between leaders in arts, history, academia and policymaking as they explored the rich history and transformative power of memory-making on the National Mall. Read More
National Park Service Statement on Beyond Granite Partnership
“As proud stewards of the National Mall, the National Park Service’s partnership on the Beyond Granite temporary artwork program ensures that our Nation’s important narratives continue to unfold on this premier civic space.” Read More
