We have two questions to ask of the Trump administration:
- How much marble?
- How much gold?
While the question of art in the White House may not seem significant, it is, in fact, important. When world leaders such as Putin, Merkel, and Netanyahu visit the oval office, what message will Trump’s art send, and how will that message be received?
Trump has not proven himself to be much of an art lover, but rather, a materialist; art has meaning but is physically worthless. Gold has weight. If anyone has the Midas touch, it’s Mr. President. Let’s take a look at his NY apartment.
Can a man of stone live in a house of wood? After all, the Midas touch is a curse not a gift. Trump cannot help himself. His artistic taste and sensibilities are more akin to a Saudi Prince than an American President. However, unlike a Saudi Prince, Trump will not be able to do whatever he wants. Do not worry. We will not be seeing frescoes on the White House ceiling anytime soon, unless they are painted by Michelangelo reincarnate. Ironically, as the president of the free world, Trump will find himself very restricted in his own home. There is a certain standard that must be upheld in the White House.
The Obamas’ selection of artwork brought a more modern/contemporary aesthetic to the White House. Their selection included a couple of Hoppers, Rauschenberg and works of several African American artists such as William H. Johnson. It is possible that the Obamas toed the line with their selections to avoid controversy; however, Trump is not quite as agile. What if he were to put an Andy Warhol dollar sign in the cabinet room or a Jeff Koons gold balloon dog on the lawn?
How would the American people respond to this, and what message would this kind of bold art send to Trump’s supporters as well as his protestors? If the art’s message is too strong, it might dilute and even contradict the president’s directive. Therefore, we the people must also tread lightly. If we are not tactful with the Don, our simple and elegant White House will soon glow golden in the sun.
