“Metro PTSD” is a raw, emotionally charged acrylic painting that documents a pivotal moment in D.C. history through the lens of resistance, remembrance, and renewal. Against the backdrop of a historic D.C. corner—recognizable to any native—the looming UFO once again symbolizes gentrification, intruding from above like an alien force, disconnected from the culture it disrupts. The bold signage reading “Metro PTSD – Authorized Dealer” is a sharp, ironic nod to the trauma experienced by Black communities displaced and disrespected by unchecked development. This reference is especially poignant when paired with the 2019 Don’t Mute Go-Go movement, born out of protests to preserve the city’s musical heartbeat. The small but powerful message on the speaker box—“DON’T MUTE DC”—grounds the piece in lived protest and cultural defiance. Painted in expressive brushstrokes with stark contrasts between bright reds and deep shadows, this piece evokes both urgency and nostalgia. The faded white figures crossing the street—ghost-like residents, community members past and present—serve as a haunting reminder of who now populates these streets. A must-have for collectors who value politically conscious art, “Metro PTSD” is a time capsule and a battle cry—a reflection of D.C.'s soul, fighting to be heard, remembered, and unmoved.
“Metro PTSD” is a raw, emotionally charged acrylic painting that documents a pivotal moment in D.C. history through the lens of resistance, remembrance, and renewal. Against the backdrop of a historic D.C. corner—recognizable to any native—the looming UFO once again symbolizes gentrification, intruding from above like an alien force, disconnected from the culture it disrupts. The bold signage reading “Metro PTSD – Authorized Dealer” is a sharp, ironic nod to the trauma experienced by Black communities displaced and disrespected by unchecked development. This reference is especially poignant when paired with the 2019 Don’t Mute Go-Go movement, born out of protests to preserve the city’s musical heartbeat. The small but powerful message on the speaker box—“DON’T MUTE DC”—grounds the piece in lived protest and cultural defiance. Painted in expressive brushstrokes with stark contrasts between bright reds and deep shadows, this piece evokes both urgency and nostalgia. The faded white figures crossing the street—ghost-like residents, community members past and present—serve as a haunting reminder of who now populates these streets. A must-have for collectors who value politically conscious art, “Metro PTSD” is a time capsule and a battle cry—a reflection of D.C.'s soul, fighting to be heard, remembered, and unmoved.
Our box frame is milled from solid ash, hand-stained by our team and finished with a specialist wax to accentuate the grain. The frame has a box profile measuring 20mm (front face) by 33mm (depth from wall).
Includes a Giclée fine art print
Solid wood frame
Choice of frame color
Can be ordered with a mount
Perspex or moth-eye glaze options
Delivered ready to hang
