A new Times Square statue now stands proudly in the middle of one of New York City’s busiest areas. Towering above the crowds, this striking bronze sculpture of a woman commands attention at the Broadway Plaza between 45th and 46th Streets. Artist Thomas J. Price created this work not just to decorate, but to spark reflection and conversation. Visitors stop to take selfies, but many pause longer to take in the message. This piece challenges expectations in a place known more for lights and entertainment than deep thought. It feels bold, thoughtful, and full of emotion. The figure doesn’t shout for attention but invites a closer look. Instead of just being another tourist stop, the incredibly moving piece of art brings a fresh energy and meaning to the plaza.
A Powerful Figure with a Simple Message
In Grounded in the Stars, a young woman stands tall with her hands in her pockets and her gaze steady. She wears a t-shirt, leggings, and sneakers, the kind of outfit New Yorkers wear every day. Thomas J. Price chose that on purpose. He wanted to show someone we might pass on the street without noticing. Now, people can’t help but notice her. At almost 12 feet tall, she captures attention without raising her voice or striking a dramatic pose. Her calm strength stands out more than any flashy costume could. She looks like she belongs, because she does. The new Times Square statue reminds people that everyday identity deserves space and respect too.
Who Created the Statue?
Thomas J. Price, a British sculptor, focuses on breaking down old ideas about who should appear in public art. He creates fictional characters who represent real people, especially those often left out of galleries and monuments. He grew up in London and uses what he sees around him as inspiration. Grounded in the Stars is one of several works in his ongoing series, but this piece marks his largest public installation in the United States. He worked with the Times Square Arts to bring it to Times Square. Price wants people to question who gets to stand tall in public places. By placing this statue in a location full of constant movement, the new Times Square statue challenges viewers to stop and think differently about public monuments.
Quiet but Unmissable
Even in Times Square, full of glowing signs and blaring sounds, Grounded in the Stars holds its own. The statue doesn’t try to compete with its surroundings. It stands calmly in contrast, and that’s what draws people in. Its rough bronze texture adds depth and invites a closer look. From the folds in her hoodie to her grounded stance, the sculpture feels carefully crafted. Passersby often walk around it slowly, noticing new details from every angle. In a place where people usually rush, this statue encourages them to slow down. The new Times Square statue proves that quiet presence can be more powerful than loud spectacle.
Changing the Way We Think About Monuments
Traditional monuments usually honor political, military, or business figures, often from a narrow view of history. Over time, many people have started to question why those individuals were chosen. Price takes a completely different path. He doesn’t sculpt the powerful or the well-known. He chooses someone ordinary and makes her extraordinary. She represents the here and now. This approach pushes people to rethink what a public monument can be. Instead of declaring something, it gently asks people to feel. The new Times Square statue opens the door to a more modern, inclusive take on public art.
The Public Reacts
Since the installation, people have gathered around the statue, taken photos, and talked about what it means. Some admire how real and relatable the figure feels. Others are rather upset that the statue is on display. It’s caused much controversy with some black Americans saying this does not represent them. “We did not ask for this!” exclaimed one commenter on an Instagram post.
Whether in favor of the art, or against it, one thing remains true: it has garnered quite a response. Many express surprise at seeing a Black woman honored in such a powerful way, especially on such a large scale. Despite controversy, online posts and comments show strong support for both the artist and the message. Tourists stop and look longer than expected, while locals say it feels like a fresh change. The artwork adds something thoughtful to a place that usually feels rushed and noisy. The new Times Square statue creates unexpected moments of pause and connection.
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How Long Will It Stay?
Grounded in the Stars officially opened on April 29, 2025, and will remain on display through June 17, 2025. After that, the sculpture could travel to another city or move into a museum collection. Times Square has hosted many public installations, but this one stands out for its message and tone. Its impact feels strong enough that some hope it stays longer. Whether temporary or not, the new Times Square statue leaves a strong mark on everyone who sees it.
A Bigger Discussion on Representation
This statue fits into a much broader shift in public art and who it chooses to highlight. In recent years, cities have removed outdated statues and added new ones that better reflect today’s values. Price’s work doesn’t just join that movement, it helps lead it. Other installations from Price have been on display in places like Piazza della Signoria, where he has “Time Unfolding”. He shows that art doesn’t have to be grand or heroic to be meaningful. It just needs to be honest. His sculptures tells people they matter, even if no one ever made a statue for them before. The statues he creates proves that representation in public spaces can feel deeply personal and powerful without being loud.
What Happens After the Statue Leaves?
Once Grounded in the Stars moves on, its message will stay with many who saw it. Public art often lasts only a short time, but its effects can linger. Viewers may carry its impact into daily life, thinking more about presence, identity, and quiet strength. Other artists may feel encouraged to follow Price’s example and create art that speaks directly to people. More importantly, this work adds to a cultural shift already underway in how cities use public space. Even after the artistic and powerful statue leaves, its influence will continue to grow.
Final Thoughts
The new Times Square statue shows that even in a city full of movement and noise, stillness can still shine. Grounded in the Stars gives New Yorkers and visitors a reason to pause and reflect. It celebrates someone who looks like they belong on the subway or in a local park, not just in a museum. It tells a powerful story without words. This kind of art reminds us that beauty and meaning live in everyday moments. It challenges old traditions without shouting them down. In a place packed with signs, sounds, and selfies, this statue gives people something more lasting. It gives them something real.
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Correction Notice: (5/20/2025) A previous version of this article listed the artwork as being a Public Arts Fund collaboration, instead of the Times Square Arts. The current updated version of the article has corrected the erroneous information.
