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Kennedy Center Removes ‘Beloved’ Sculpture From Its Grounds

The center did not announce the move ahead of time.

Workers remove the sculpture "Blue" by artist Joel Shapiro on the grounds of the John F. Kennedy Center

Workers were seen adding a protective covering and dismantling artist Joel Shapiro’s sculpture on Wednesday morning. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein)

By Avani Kalra

September 2, 2026 10:53 a.m.

The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts removed a famous outdoor sculpture from its grounds on Wednesday, the latest in a series of changes made as part of President Donald Trump’s takeover of the storied arts institution.

A public notice from the National Park Service announced road closures beginning around 6 a.m. “at the request of The Kennedy Center for the removal of the ‘Blue’ Statue on The Kennedy Center grounds.”

The Kennedy Center did not announce the sculpture’s removal ahead of time.