A rich cultural overview of Virginia which immerses readers in the landscapes, foodways, industries, and people that make up this diverse state. Our Commonwealth: People and Places of Virginia provides an in-depth exploration through the five major regions of Virginia, and features stories and artifacts from cultural institutions throughout the state. Each geographical region-Central Virginia, Northern Virginia, Shenandoah Valley, Southwest, and Tidewater Virginia-takes us on a memorable journey, starting in the present day and making connections back into the past. Extensively illustrated, with large-scale and broad scenic images, and stills from the Museum exhibit's changing digital projections called ?living murals?, the volume frames a narrative footprint for each regional section, immersing us in the arts, culture, food, music, industry, and people that make the state unique. Objects, archival materials, personal stories, musical scores, and food recipes, in addition to extended special features and focus spreads on Place, Perspective, and Inflection Point for each region, enable readers to explore key historical moments and regional themes. AUTHOR: Andrew Talkov is senior director of Curatorial Affairs, Virginia Museum of History & Culture. SELLING POINTS: . A companion guide to the long-term exhibition Our Commonwealth at Virginia Museum of History & Culture. . Highlights include ?living murals? that frame the narrative footprint of each region to capture the unique essence of Virginians' relationship with that place, bringing us into the ?place? essence of each of the regions. . Explores one of America's most diverse communities in Northern Virginia. . Travels through time on Virginia's historic roads and waterways. . Delights in the music, crafts, and natural beauty of Southwest Virginia history. . Traces the stories of the Blackwell Family, an African American family whose Virginia roots go back nearly 300 years. There are over 5,000 names on the family tree, including Arthur Ashe Jr. (1943-1993). 400 colour illustrations