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- By Shivangi Sharma
- Tue, 04 Nov 2025 06:25 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
A provocative life-size sculpture depicting US President Donald Trump suspended on a white cross while wearing an orange prison uniform is finally open to the public in Basel, Switzerland, after initial plans were scrapped over security concerns. The artwork, titled “Saint or Sinner,” merges religious iconography with political commentary and has already triggered intense public debate.
Gallery Gleis 4 originally intended to display the sculpture inside Basel’s main train station on September 6. However, after assessing crowd risks and potential public unrest, organizers decided to cancel the plan.The decision came after warnings the piece would attract crowds, clashes, or demonstrations, especially in such a busy transit center.
Instead, the work is now on view at the Basler Kunstmeile exhibition space in the city center. It went up on display on 1 November and will remain visible for two weeks until mid-November.
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Religious And Political Symbolism
The piece depicts Trump strapped to a white cross resembling both a crucifix and an execution gurney used in lethal-injection procedures. It is an intentional duality: viewers would see a crucifixion image if it were positioned vertically and an execution chamber if horizontal.
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Mason Storm, an artist known for sharp political satire, explains that such dual symbolism invites audiences to confront their prejudices, forcing them to decide whether Trump is a martyr or a perpetrator. The work reflects on power, justice, punishment, and democratic accountability in modern times.
Mixed Public Reaction
The Swiss outlet 20 Minuten reported that many passersby were shocked by the installation, arguing that it crossed a moral line by fusing religious imagery with partisan politics. Others defended it as a legitimate form of social critique, noting that art has historically challenged authority.
Organisers at the gallery acknowledged that hyper-realistic rendering does add to the intensity of reactions. Some viewers described feelings of discomfort, while others praised its courage.
Basel officials expressed concern that the station’s high foot-traffic environment could not safely manage public response. The relocation to a more controlled venue ensures tighter monitoring and reduces the likelihood of disruptions. The sculpture has already been purchased by an international private collector for an undisclosed amount. Insurance paperwork reportedly values it in the high six-figure range.