A new public art installation in New York City's Times Square is sparking conversations about representation, identity, and the role of monuments in public spaces. British artist Thomas J Price's 12-foot bronze sculpture, Grounded in the Stars, was unveiled on April 29, 2025, at the intersection of Broadway and 46th Street. The statue portrays a young Black woman in casual attire standing with her hands on her hips—a pose that subtly references Michelangelo's. 

Price's work challenges traditional notions of monumentality and who is deemed worthy of public commemoration. The artist invites viewers to reflect on shared humanity and the diversity of experiences that shape society by depicting an everyday figure rather than a historical or mythical hero.

The sculpture is part of a broader initiative by Times Square Arts, featuring Price's Man Series—animated sculptures displayed on 95 digital billboards nightly throughout May as part of the "Midnight Moment" program. This multimedia presentation continues the tradition of thought-provoking public art in Times Square.

Public reaction to Grounded in the Stars has been mixed. While many praise the piece for its inclusive message and challenge to conventional standards, others have criticized it, reflecting ongoing debates over representation in public art. The installation contrasts nearby statues of historical white male figures, prompting discussions about whose stories are told in public spaces.