Kennedy Center Removes Joel Shapiro's 'Blue' Sculpture from Campus

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts began dismantling the outdoor sculpture titled "Blue" on Wednesday, according to a National Park Service notice about road closures at the venue’s request. The work, a blue stick-figure form created by the late artist Joel Shapiro, had been installed on the Center’s grounds since 2019 as part of the "Reach" expansion.

A Kennedy Center spokesperson said the removal was initiated by the institution and that the Joel Shapiro and Ellen Phelan Foundation will determine where the piece will be placed next. The spokesperson added, ">We are deeply grateful to Joel Shapiro for the years Blue has spent animating our campus and connecting visitors to his vision. We are honored to have been stewards of his vibrant work and a part of his enduring legacy."

The Center noted that deinstallations of gifted artworks are common for conservation and preservation purposes. The sculpture was wrapped and partially disassembled early Wednesday morning, with crews removing one arm from the structure.

The removal occurs amid broader changes at the Kennedy Center following President Donald Trump's appointment as chairman and subsequent leadership turnover. The White House did not respond to inquiries about the decision. Local arts groups have expressed criticism of the move.