12-Foot Bronze Statue of Plus-Size Black Woman Turns Heads and Sparks Dialogue in Times Square

A bold new presence is commanding attention in Times Square: a 12-foot bronze statue of a plus-size Black woman, created by British artist Thomas Price. Unveiled last week, the sculpture is part of the series “Grounded in the Stars,” which explores themes of identity, representation, and shared humanity. The unnamed figure invites personal reflection, with viewers projecting their own stories and emotions. “I wonder what little me would’ve felt seeing this,” said Blessing Obieze of Dallas. Others called the statue “powerful” and “purposeful.” Installed in one of the world’s busiest intersections, the work challenges beauty norms and elevates underrepresented bodies in public art. Times Square Arts Director Jean Cooney says the piece makes a timely statement: Who do we value, and who do we choose to celebrate?