What Do Visitors Think of Thomas J. Price’s Times Square Sculpture?
Hyperallergic set out to hear from people seeing the artwork onsite, and their thoughts were considerably different from the online discourse.
Times Square Statue Sparks Debate on Body Image and Representation of Black Women A recent TikTok video has ignited a conversation about the representation of Black women in public spaces. The video, posted by 444thehealers, focuses on a statue in Times Square, which the author finds offensive and misrepresentative. The author states, "That big behind, twelve-foot overweight Black woman in the middle of Times Square...that is what they chose to represent us?" This quote highlights the creator's frustration with the portrayal of Black women as solely hypersexualized or aggressive. The video has amassed significant views and comments, indicating a widespread resonance with the author's message. The creator's commentary touches upon a broader issue of body image and the lack of diverse representation in public art and media. While some may find the language used in the video strong, it underscores the emotional weight of the issue for many Black women. The discussion sparked by this video is a crucial step in promoting more inclusive and respectful representation in the public sphere. Going forward, it is vital to consider the impact of public art on perceptions of different communities.
Hyperallergic set out to hear from people seeing the artwork onsite, and their thoughts were considerably different from the online discourse.