University of North Texas Cancels Controversial Art Exhibit
The University of North Texas School of Visual Arts and Design has decided to cancel an art exhibit showcasing works that critique U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Kela News, a North Texas NPR station, reported that an anonymous tip to the Denton Record-Chronicle described one exhibit titled “Ni de aki, ni de ara,” created by Victor Quiñones, a well-known street artist who goes by the name maruca 27. This work features pointed criticisms of ICE.
Quiñones is recognized on his website as “an acclaimed international street artist” who merges various art forms like graffiti, vinyl toys, and fashion.
Kela News characterized some of Quiñones’ pieces as “sharp critiques of ICE,” which have led to protests nationwide, particularly following the tougher immigration enforcement policies during the Trump administration.
One notable collection on Quiñones’ website is the “ice scream series,” described as a visual protest that reinterprets everyday items like paletas into symbols of systemic oppression. On the surface, these colorful treats might bring a sense of nostalgia, but they also reveal a more disturbing reality upon closer inspection.
The exhibit was set to open on February 19, according to Kela News.
Tensions surrounding ICE have surged in recent weeks, particularly after the January 7 shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer. She reportedly attempted to drive off while a police officer was in her way. Protests have escalated further following another shooting incident involving ICE on January 24.
In January, ICE reported a staggering increase in assaults—over 1,300%—along with a sharp rise in vehicle attacks against police officers and death threats, which went up by 8,000%.
On social media, Quiñones expressed his frustration, stating, “My show has been censored and removed, but we will not be silent!! In a time of censorship and democratic decline, our fundamental human rights are being violated every day.” He emphasized that his work underscores the beauty and resilience of immigrant communities while also confronting uncomfortable truths.
Fox News Digital has reached out to both the University of North Texas System and Quiñones for their reactions to the cancellation.
