IllumiNATION

To commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture partnered with Riggs Ward Design to create IllumiNATION, a large-scale projection mapping experience that transformed the museum’s historic facade into a canvas for the American story.

The 20-minute experience combined animation, historic imagery, original motion graphics, and music to tell the story of the people, places, and moments that have shaped our nation.

Designed as the centerpiece of a four-night community celebration, IllumiNATION was accompanied by a free block party featuring live music, cultural demonstrations, food vendors, family activities, after-hours museum access, and local community organizations. Together, these experiences created an accessible and welcoming event that encouraged visitors of all ages to engage with America’s past while celebrating its future.

The response from the community exceeded expectations. Across four evenings, it is estimated that IllumiNATION welcomed over 30,000 visitors.

Content, creation, and technical execution by Zero Liability Unlimited and BES Studios.

Produced by Riggs Ward Design.