Texas University Cancels Exhibition Critical of ICE | Artnet News

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by Sarah Cascone

February 13, 2026

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The University of North Texas (UNT) has sparked controversy by canceling an exhibition by Brooklyn-based artist Victor "Marka27" Quiñonez, whose work critiques Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE). The show, titled *Ni de Aquí, Ni de Allá* (*Not From Here, Not From There*), was scheduled to explore the immigrant experience and celebrate Latinx communities but was abruptly removed after installation without explanation. The cancellation occurred despite strong support from UNT gallery director Stefanie Dlugosz-Acton, who had previously expressed enthusiasm for the exhibition. This decision has raised concerns about censorship in public institutions. The exhibition, which originated at Boston University's College of Fine Arts and was curated by Kate Fowle, featured works from Quiñonez's *I.C.E. Scream* series, including sculptures rebranding ICE as "Inhumane and Cruelty Enforcement" using melting popsicles, handcuffs, and handguns. Born in Mexico and raised in Dallas, Quiñonez draws inspiration from his own experiences with immigration, racism, and dual identity. His art aims to highlight the contributions of immigrant communities rather than solely focusing on ICE's policies. The cancellation was sudden and unexplained. After visiting UNT in January for final preparations, including a student competition and gallery tour, Quiñonez found himself ghosted by gallery staff. Students later informed him that the exhibition had been closed without notice, with gallery windows covered and social media pages removed. Dlugosz-Acton sent an email stating the university had terminated its loan agreement with Boston University Art Galleries but provided no reasoning. This incident highlights broader concerns about artistic freedom and institutional accountability. The cancellation of a show critical of ICE raises questions about censorship in public spaces, particularly those funded by taxpayer dollars. It also underscores the importance of exhibitions like Quiñonez's in fostering

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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/13/2026