New York, USA – A striking 12-foot-tall sculpture of a plus-size Black woman has been officially unveiled in the heart of Times Square, capturing the attention of locals and tourists alike.
The piece, titled “Brick House” by African-American artist Simone Leigh, is part of a public art initiative celebrating body diversity, cultural heritage, and racial representation. The sculpture features the head and upper torso of a full-figured Black woman, exuding strength and dignity. Her hair is styled in traditional African-inspired cornrows, blending classical beauty with modern symbolism.
According to Leigh, the work is not only a celebration of beauty beyond traditional norms but also a powerful reminder of the presence and significance of Black women in public spaces—where they are often marginalized or misrepresented.
“I want to affirm that Black women—of all shapes and sizes—deserve to be celebrated, seen, and heard,” Leigh said at the sculpture’s unveiling.
The statue is on display as part of the “Art in Times Square” program and will remain through the summer. Many New Yorkers expressed emotional reactions upon seeing a figure that boldly represents a historically underrepresented group in such a prominent cultural hub.
A visitor from Chicago shared, “I’ve never seen an artwork that looked like me before. This is truly inspiring.”
As with many groundbreaking pieces of public art, “Brick House” has sparked mixed reactions. Some have called it too unconventional or “unnecessarily provocative.” However, the majority have praised its boldness and the powerful message it conveys.
In an era where contemporary art increasingly embraces inclusion and reflects society’s diverse reality, “Brick House” stands not just as a statue—but as a proud declaration of identity, acceptance, and the future vision of public art.