A giant ice sculpture of the word “democracy” was unveiled on the National Mall Wednesday.
The melting piece of art is meant to symbolize “America’s weakened democracy and the costs of its failure amid growing militarism and authoritarianism,” organizers say.
The entire sculpture spans about 20 feet and is in view of the Capitol.
The two New York City artists behind the installation, Marshall Reese and Nora Ligorano, have been installing temporary sculptures like this since 2006. This is the fourth time they have used the word democracy.
“It’s hard being an American to think that we need pro-democracy advocacy actions and groups, but that’s what we do,” Reese said.
Reese says recent government changes and what they view as an expansion of the executive branch influenced this artwork.
nbcnews on October 15th, 2025 at 22:16 UTC »
A giant ice sculpture of the word “democracy” was unveiled on the National Mall Wednesday.
The melting piece of art is meant to symbolize “America’s weakened democracy and the costs of its failure amid growing militarism and authoritarianism,” organizers say.
The entire sculpture spans about 20 feet and is in view of the Capitol.
The two New York City artists behind the installation, Marshall Reese and Nora Ligorano, have been installing temporary sculptures like this since 2006. This is the fourth time they have used the word democracy.
“It’s hard being an American to think that we need pro-democracy advocacy actions and groups, but that’s what we do,” Reese said.
Reese says recent government changes and what they view as an expansion of the executive branch influenced this artwork.
More: https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/politics/melting-democracy-ice-sculpture-displayed-on-national-mall/4002520/
Soggy_Auggy__ on October 15th, 2025 at 22:23 UTC »
Very poignant
viktor72 on October 15th, 2025 at 22:42 UTC »
How do they get the permits for these? It’s cool but I’m impressed.