A controversial decision to remove a piece of artwork featuring Donald Trump’s face from the Scope Art Show in Miami has sparked accusations of censorship. The artwork, created by Shyglo, is a photorealistic oil painting with neon text reading “huge” across Trump’s face. Shyglo’s work often portrays cultural icons like Marilyn Monroe and Prince.
According to Lindsay Kotler, the owner of Miami-based L Kotler Fine Art, fair organizers demanded the removal of the piece late Monday night, just hours before the show’s opening. Despite being offered storage space for the piece, Kotler declined, citing the lack of proper crating for the artwork. Witnesses saw her taking the piece down on Tuesday, the fair’s opening day.
Scope Art Show faces backlash after demanding removal of Trump-themed artwork
Kotler claimed organizers initially did not explain their request but later described the artwork as “suggestive.” She acknowledged that the contract allowed organizers to request the removal of any piece, but she found the decision surprising and unwarranted. In her view, the work is not offensive and is intended to spark conversation, like all meaningful art.
The gallery owner emphasized that the piece was neither politically charged nor harmful. Kotler argued that art should inspire interpretation and dialogue, lamenting what she saw as an example of censorship. She also highlighted her gallery’s inclusive representation of artists with diverse political perspectives, including those who support both Trump and Kamala Harris.
Organizers of Scope, however, denied the censorship claims. In a statement, they asserted that Kotler’s gallery, along with others, was asked to rehang or remove works that deviated from their original proposals. They maintained that the artwork’s content was not a factor in the request.
Despite the controversy, the incident appears to have increased interest in the piece, which was originally priced at $8,500. Reports suggest a bidding war has since emerged for the artwork.
