Melania Trump statue stolen and set on fire in Slovenia

Melania Trump statue stolen and burned in Slovenia: a symbolic message or mere vandalism?

The peaceful Slovenian town of Sevnica, where former US First Lady Melania Trump was born, has made international headlines in recent years for two dramatic incidents. The incidents involved two separate sculptures of Melania Trump, one burned and the other stolen. These incidents were not just about the destruction or theft of sculptures—they carried multi-dimensional political, cultural, and social implications.

The context behind the sculpture installation

In 2019, American artist Brad Downey collaborated with local Slovenian woodcarver Ales Župevec to create an exceptional work of art. It was a full-length wooden sculpture of Melania Trump, modeled after the blue dress she wore to her 2017 presidential inauguration. The artwork was intended as a political artistic statement, and Downey sought to spark discussions about political identity, immigration, and the "popular icon."

The sculpture, which was placed on a tree trunk in a field near Sevnica, has caused mixed reactions among locals. Some have mocked it as a "cartoon version of Melania," while others have expressed curiosity. Locals have also mocked it as a "Smurfette."

The burned sculpture

On July 4, 2020—United States Independence Day—unidentified assailants set the sculpture on fire. Downey believes that the incident was not just an example of artistic destruction, but also carried a symbolic message. After the fire, the remaining wooden parts were collected and put on display in an exhibition.

The local administration launched an investigation into the incident, but the perpetrators have not been identified. Some saw the incident as a political protest, especially against US policies under Donald Trump. Others saw it as mere vandalism or 'sculptural insult'.

Bronze sculpture and theft

In 2020, artist Brad Downey created a new sculpture, this time in bronze, to replace the fire-damaged sculpture. It was made in the same style as the previous wooden sculpture. The sculpture was installed in the same place and became a popular tourist attraction for local people.

However, this sculpture did not last long. In May 2025, the bronze sculpture was stolen by unknown thieves, who cut it off at the ankle. The incident has once again sparked debate and raised the question - was it mere theft, or is there a political or ideological motive behind it?

Artist Downey believes that this was a planned theft, which may once again be carrying a political message. He specifically noted that Donald Trump's re-election campaign was underway at the time of the incident, which makes the timing of the theft even more significant.

Local reaction and tourism

The town of Sevnica, once a quiet, unknown town, has now become a center of international tourism because of Melania Trump. Melania-themed chocolates, cosmetics and other items are being sold in the town. Locals see this popularity as an economic opportunity, but at the same time they are also somewhat embarrassed by the controversy and unpleasant events surrounding the sculpture.

Significance of the destruction and theft of sculptures

Sculptures are a means of cultural and historical representation of a nation. When a sculpture is destroyed or stolen, it is not just a material loss—it can also be a form of expression or protest. In the case of Melania Trump sculptures, these messages are even deeper and more complex.

On the one hand, these events give rise to a kind of ‘performative art’ through freedom of art, freedom of expression, and political protest. On the other hand, these actions are considered by many to be simply incivility and a violation of the law.

Conclusion

The theft and burning of the Melania Trump sculpture in Slovenia are not limited to the local or personal level. These events create a connection between our global politics, art practice, and symbolic protest. They remind us that sculpture is not just an artistic resonance, but a deep cultural and political reflection.

Now the question is—will we see another sculpture in Sevnica in the future? Or will a permanent silence descend after these two incidents? The answer may lie in the hands of the future.