UP’s Art News Recent Round-Ups
Published on September 12th, 2025
Welcome to your regular dive into the dynamic world of street art and culture. From striking new murals turning heads to global street movements shaping the scene and everything in between! We’re tuned into what’s happening now and why it matters, reporting on what our contemporaries are covering.
We keep an eye on what other leading voices and publications are saying, learning from across the culture to bring you a broader, deeper perspective.
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New Public Art in Jackson Heights Honors Nepalese Culture and Community
A new public art installation by Nepalese artist IMAGINE (a.k.a. Sneha Shrestha) was unveiled on September 6 in Diversity Plaza, Jackson Heights, Queens. Titled “About a Living Culture,” the six-foot-tall golden arch sculpture is composed of cut-out steel renderings of the Nepali letter “Ka,” the first character of the Devanagari script. The work draws inspiration from Nepalese vernacular architecture and spiritual traditions, aiming to create a contemplative space that honors ancestral roots while embracing the diverse narratives of Jackson Heights. The installation is a collaboration between the Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art and the NYC Department of Transportation Art Program, and will be on view through January 4, 2026.
IMAGINE’s practice blends Sanskrit scripture aesthetics with graffiti art, and this sculpture marks her first public art piece. The installation is strategically placed in Diversity Plaza, a bustling cultural and transit hub for the area’s large Nepali community. Local leaders, including NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez and Council Member Shekar Krishnan, have praised the artwork for fostering a sense of pride and belonging among the community. This project aligns with the Rubin Museum’s mission to support living artists and make Himalayan art accessible in innovative ways.
-Reported by Art Daily, 13 August 2025
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“Sandwich Guy” Street Art Sparks Political Protest in D.C.
In Washington, D.C., a viral incident involving government employee Sean Dunn throwing a sandwich at federal officers has inspired a wave of street art. Banksy-style posters depicting Dunn, dubbed the “sandwich guy,” throwing a hoagie at administration officials like Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller have appeared in the Shaw neighborhood. These artworks, reminiscent of Banksy’s “Flower Thrower,” serve as a satirical commentary on the Trump administration’s actions, including the federalization of local police forces in response to a declared “crime emergency.” Despite a 30-year low in violent crime in D.C., the administration’s measures have faced criticism from residents and officials.
The posters have sparked discussions about the use of street art as a form of political protest. While some view them as a creative expression of dissent, others have removed the posters, citing concerns over public property. The incident has also led to legal actions against Dunn, who faces charges related to the incident. The artwork continues to resonate with many as a symbol of resistance against perceived overreach by federal authorities.
–Reported by Kelly Rissman, The Independent, 2 September 2025
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Banksy’s Latest Mural Critiques UK Legal System Amid Protest Arrests
Photograph courtesy of The Washington Post
A new mural by the elusive street artist Banksy appeared on the Royal Courts of Justice in central London, showing a judge in traditional wig and robe striking a protester on the ground, with blood splattering the protester’s placard. The artwork surfaced shortly after nearly 900 arrests at a London protest against the ban on Palestine Action. Quickly covered up and scheduled for removal, the piece sparked conversations about its critique of the legal system, though it doesn’t reference a specific case. Banksy confirmed the work’s authenticity via Instagram, continuing his history of politically charged street art.
This mural joins Banksy’s recent London projects that challenge government policies and social issues, adding to his legacy of provocative public artworks that engage with contemporary debates. Officials emphasized the building’s listed status and their duty to preserve its character, while police investigated the reported criminal damage. The mural’s appearance reignited discussion on the role of protest and judicial power in the UK.
-Reported by Thomas Mackintosh and Paddy Evans, BBC News, 8 September 2025
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Seattle’s Pioneer Square Comes Alive with New Public Art Initiative by Forest for the Trees
Seattle’s historic Pioneer Square was revitalized with a burst of vibrant public artworks as part of the nonprofit Forest for the Trees’ latest project. The Railspur Alley area, previously underused, was transformed into an outdoor gallery featuring 23 diverse pieces by local and regional artists. This initiative seeks to reimagine urban spaces as lively community hubs, blending contemporary creativity with the neighborhood’s rich heritage. Highlights include David Rice’s compelling portrait of a woman standing in the rain and Yi Du’s serene, dreamlike mural, both enhancing the visual and cultural fabric of the area.
This installation is part of Forest for the Trees’ decade-long commitment to fostering public art in the Pacific Northwest, having collaborated with over 150 artists since its inception. By activating overlooked spaces with engaging artworks, the organization not only beautifies the city but also invites residents and visitors alike to interact with art in everyday life. The project exemplifies how public art can play a vital role in urban regeneration, community connection, and cultural expression.
–Reported by Jessica Stewart, My Modern Met, 10 September 2025
Helene is a writer and artist based in New York City. Having earned her MFA in photography from Rochester Institute of Technology, Helene brings a visual perspective to storytelling. With both her artwork and writing, Helene seeks to provoke thought and inspire dialogue. She currently writes for UP Magazine.