The monumental statue “Grounded in the Stars” by British sculptor Thomas J. Price has become a focal point of discussion since its installation in Times Square. Standing at 12 feet tall, the bronze sculpture depicts a casually dressed Black woman with her hands on her hips, challenging traditional notions of monumentality and representation.
The artwork has generated a range of reactions online, with some conservative outlets criticizing it for not depicting a figure with notable achievements or accolades. Others have praised the sculpture for celebrating the diversity and strength of Black women. In the midst of this digital discourse, individuals who have seen the statue in person have shared their own perspectives.
Rosheka Faulkner, a 27-year-old PhD student from New Jersey, expressed how seeing a statue of a Black woman, especially one who is plus-size, resonated with her. She described the sculpture as a reflection of her hopes for the country, as well as a stark reminder of its current state.
Stephanie Hamm, a visitor from Texas, highlighted the significance of honoring a regular Black woman who has historically gone unrecognized for her contributions to society. She emphasized the importance of celebrating Black women for who they are, without the need for exceptional achievements.
Carolyn Shepherd, an Atlanta resident, described the statue as “pretty bad-ass,” emphasizing the need for more representation of women in public art. She noted that the statue of the Black woman was larger than the adjacent statues of George M. Cohan and Father Francis P. Duffy, symbolizing the larger-than-life presence of ordinary women.
Terry Grant, visiting from Utah, appreciated how the sculpture portrayed real women as they are today, showcasing a diverse and inclusive representation of femininity. The artwork resonated with him as a reflection of contemporary society.
Marsha Thomas and Margaret Harvin Cole, residents of Atlanta, also weighed in on the significance of the sculpture in challenging traditional notions of monumentality and representation. They acknowledged the importance of digital conversations in shaping public perceptions of art and cultural symbols.
Overall, the statue “Grounded in the Stars” has sparked meaningful discussions about race, representation, and the power of public art to challenge and disrupt established norms. Its presence in Times Square serves as a powerful reminder of the diversity and strength of Black women in society. Thomas’s daughter had sent her a post about the sculpture earlier that week, sparking a conversation that delved into the significance and impact of the artwork on its viewers. The sculpture, titled “Grounded in the Stars,” had garnered mixed reactions online, with some finding it harsh and unflattering in photographs. However, Thomas and her daughter agreed that seeing the sculpture in person revealed a different perspective. Thomas noted that the sculpture reminded her of someone familiar, possibly a family member, while her daughter, Harvin Cole, jokingly remarked that it looked like her.
Discussing the representation of Black people in art, Thomas raised important questions about the artist’s intention and the portrayal of Black individuals. She emphasized the importance of mindful and sensitive depictions, highlighting the need for authenticity and respect in representing diverse communities. Harvin Cole praised the sculpture for celebrating the everyday Black woman, acknowledging the beauty of her full-figured form and lively eyes.
The sisters admired the attention to detail in the sculpture, particularly the depiction of the woman’s braids and natural appearance. As they reflected on the significance of the artwork, they expressed their appreciation for the artist’s portrayal of a real and relatable woman.
Meanwhile, visitors from out of town, such as Matt and Madeline Novachis from Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Rhonda Thompson from New York, shared their impressions of the sculpture. Madeline, intrigued by the debates surrounding the artwork, found it to be a moving and beautiful representation. Rhonda, accompanied by her friend Quiana Brown from Los Angeles, marveled at the sculpture’s realism and full-figured depiction, emphasizing the importance of diverse representation in public art.
As they engaged with the artwork and its themes, the visitors recognized the potential of such representation to spark dialogue and promote inclusivity. They acknowledged the artwork’s ability to bring people from different backgrounds together, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for diversity. Reflecting on the impact of artworks like “Grounded in the Stars,” they expressed hope that such representations would contribute to positive social change and promote a more inclusive society.
Overall, the conversations surrounding the sculpture highlighted the power of art to provoke thought, inspire dialogue, and challenge perceptions. Through its representation of a real and diverse woman, “Grounded in the Stars” served as a catalyst for meaningful conversations about representation, diversity, and equity in art and society. Recent studies have shown that mindfulness meditation can have a significant impact on physical and mental health. Mindfulness meditation is a practice that involves focusing on the present moment and being aware of one’s thoughts and feelings without judgment. This practice has been found to reduce stress, improve focus, and increase overall well-being.
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