Sculpture of Trump Strapped to a Cross Displayed in Switzerland
A lifelike sculpture portraying U.S. President Donald Trump in an orange prison jumpsuit and strapped to a cross has sparked attention and mixed emotions in Switzerland, where it went on exhibit this week.
Art Installation and Description
The piece, created by British artist Mason Storm and titled "Saint or Sinner," portrays Trump with his eyes shut, lying against a padded white cross slightly tilted backward. The scene evokes suggestions of a crucifixion or a lethal injection setup. The sculpture has been on public display in the northern Swiss city of Basel since Saturday, following an earlier presentation in Vienna.
Public and Curator Reactions
“It is scary realistic,” said Konrad Breznik, owner of the Gleis 4 gallery showcasing the work.
“When we installed it, we came that close, and you would see every wrinkle and the skin is so realistic, it's really scary,” he told AFP.
The gallery had initially planned to present the sculpture inside its Basel train station venue in September but later chose a quieter location on Basler Kunstmeile, a central pedestrian walkway. The change allowed more people to observe the piece without crowding.
Visitor Engagement
Electronic counters recorded over 3,000 visitors passing by the exhibit on Monday alone, demonstrating the strong public interest in Storm’s provocative work.
Artist and Context
Mason Storm, known for blending political themes and realism, described the installation as an invitation to consider perceptions of sanctity and condemnation in public life. "Saint or Sinner" continues his streak of artworks challenging authority and image.
Author’s summary: The Basel exhibition of Mason Storm’s provocative Trump sculpture has drawn significant attention for its lifelike detail and symbolic power.