Rama Duwaji's First Interview as NYC First Lady Addresses Teenage Tweets and Artistic Practice

Artist Rama Duwaji gave her first interview with a journalist since her husband Zohran Mamdani took office as New York City mayor on January 1. The conversation took place at Gracie Mansion in Manhattan last week, conducted by Hyperallergic editor-in-chief Hakim Bishara. During what Bishara described as a standard studio visit, Duwaji appeared humble and thoughtful, refusing to leverage her celebrity status for career advancement. While the discussion primarily focused on her artistic practice involving drawings and ceramics, it gained international attention due to Duwaji's apology for foolish teenage tweets that a far-right publication had unearthed online. These tweets were reportedly dug up in an attempt to damage her rising popularity. The interview was picked up by dozens of publications worldwide, marking a significant moment as Duwaji balances her roles as artist and New York City's first lady. Bishara noted he had never met Duwaji before or heard her speak publicly, and he hoped the interview would provide insight into her true character as both a person and artist.