Overview
- Artists Nora Ligorano and Marshall Reese installed a 3,000‑pound ice sculpture spelling “Democracy” near the U.S. Capitol on Oct. 15.
- The piece measured about five feet tall by 17 feet wide and began melting shortly after installation in direct sunlight.
- Organizers tied the work to Ben Cohen’s Up in Arms campaign, which advocates reduced military spending and greater investment in health, education, and other social needs.
- The creators framed the melting word as a warning about eroding rights, with Cohen criticizing actions under President Trump as threats to democratic norms.
- Organizers estimated a 10 to 12 hour lifespan for the sculpture, and by Thursday morning it had likely disappeared, according to ARTnews.