Times Square has unveiled a towering 12-foot bronze statue of a black woman, challenging traditional public art norms. As Times Square continues to prioritize diversity as a cultural landmark, this new addition sparks questions about the importance of representation. How come New York continues to remove statues from American history museums?
A New Monument in America’s Crossroads
Times Square has introduced a striking new 12-foot bronze statue of a black woman at the intersection of Broadway and 46th Street, creating a significant contrast to existing monuments. The installation, which arrived on April 29 and will remain until June 17, stands out among the bright lights and bustling crowds of one of the world’s most visited public spaces.
Titled “Grounded in the Stars,” the artwork by British artist Thomas J. Price intentionally contrasts with two permanent monuments in the area. These existing statues commemorate Father Francis Duffy, a highly decorated World War I Army cleric, and George C. Cohan, a pioneering Broadway figure.
The Times Square Arts association admits its new 12-foot bronze statue of an overweight black woman is supposed to serve as a "contrast" to the two white men who have statues in the neighborhood. One of those white men was a distinguished WWI hero:https://t.co/ZnGPxbQzwE pic.twitter.com/7Fp5ciQyjI
— Joe Kinsey (@JoeKinseyexp) May 7, 2025
Artistic Vision and Public Response
The Times Square Arts association, which presented the statue, describes the installation as creating “an introspective meditation on humanity” while offering “a new perspective on Times Square.” Price’s work is not modeled after any specific individual but aims to amplify traditionally marginalized bodies on a monumental scale.
According to Price’s website, the figure’s “stature and unbothered gaze are markers of status and authority; this is a figure who understands her worth.” The statue is deliberately positioned at ground level on a wide base, inviting direct engagement with visitors rather than being elevated on a pedestal like traditional monuments.
The Times Square 12-foot bronze statue of an overweight black woman is supposed to serve as a "contrast" to the two white men who have statues in the tourist spot. One of those white men statues belongs to a World War I hero: https://t.co/zieXPoaXAo pic.twitter.com/QxK60GVUl1
— OutKick (@Outkick) May 7, 2025
Funding and Cultural Context
The installation is part of a two-part takeover in Times Square that includes animated billboards called “Man Series.” Support for the project comes from several prominent organizations, including the Jacques and Natasha Gelman Foundation, Morgan Stanley, the New York State Council on the Arts, and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.
Price explained the significance of the location, noting that “Times Square stands as an iconic symbol and site of convergence, uniting people from all walks of life.” The artist’s intention is for his public works to “become part of the place they inhabit and its physical, material history, as well as the visitors that pass through.”
The statue has generated significant discussion online and among visitors, with reactions ranging from enthusiastic support to critical commentary. Some observers have characterized the installation as deliberately provocative, while others celebrate it as a necessary evolution in public art representation.