Times Square, a central hub of New York City, has recently added a new installation that is drawing public attention. According to CBS News, a 12-foot bronze statue depicting a young woman was unveiled last week. Artist Thomas Price's creation is part of the "Grounded in the Stars" series, which is intended to examine and explore concepts of identity and representation.
This public art installation, situated on the north side of Duffy Square, integrates into the urban environment and is designed to engage both city residents and tourists. "To have this work here is making a statement, potentially asking questions, about what we value as a city, as a society, and hopefully it's a tribute to our shared humanity," Jean Cooney, Times Square Arts Director, told CBS News.
Price’s statue is positioned among Times Square’s traditional monuments and depicts a contemporary, everyday figure, differing from the historical subjects commonly represented in public sculpture. The figure stands in a pose reminiscent of classical works, dressed in casual clothing, establishing a contrast with conventional representations. As per Time Out, the statue was created using a collection of observations and images gathered from various cities, resulting in a work that reflects recognizable and relatable features.
In addition to the bronze statue, Thomas J. Price has expanded his work into the digital realm. Throughout May, "Man Series," a series of stop-motion animations, will be displayed on the billboards as part of his broader artistic project focused on representing historically marginalized bodies on a larger scale. "The intention of my public works is to become part of the place they inhabit and its physical, material history, as well as the visitors that pass through and around the location, no matter how fleeting," Price explained in an official statement quoted by Time Out.
"It's a plus-size woman, I'm a plus-size man. I'm African American, it's an African American woman statue," Bryan Woodson of Kansas shared in an interview with CBS News. The sculpture will remain on display in Times Square until June 17, highlighting themes of diversity and the role of everyday life in public spaces.
