Former first lady Melania Trump has joined the growing list of celebrities and influencers entering the NFT world - offering up a watercolour painting of her eyes and a complimentary voice message.
On Wednesday, she posted a statement to her official Twitter account and noted how “excited” she is for the venture.
Excited for this new venture, which combines my passion for art and commitment to helping our Nation’s children fulfill their own unique American Dream. #MelaniaNFT https://t.co/XJN18tMllg pic.twitter.com/wMpmDDsQdp
— MELANIA TRUMP (@MELANIATRUMP) December 16, 2021
She said a portion of the proceeds are going to support children who are aging out of the foster cares system - although the exact percentage wasn’t disclosed, raising some eyebrows.
People can buy Trump’s first NFT, called “Melania’s Vision,” at any time before the month ends.
The NFT is a watercolour created by artist Marc-Antonie Coulon, which “embodies Mrs Trump’s cobalt blue eyes, providing the collector with an amulet to inspire,” according to the statement.
The digital artwork is being sold for 1 unit of SOL cryptocurrency (over $180) and includes an audio recording with “a message of hope”.
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“I am proud to announce my new NFT endeavour, which embodies my passion for the arts, and will support my ongoing commitment to children through my Be Best initiative,” the former first lady said in the statement.
Melania’s Vision and the other anticipated NFTs will be released in “regular intervals” on MelaniaTrump.com.
People on Twitter had a lot to say about the announcement. Check out some of the mixed reactions below.
Quite possibly one of the classiest First Ladies in US History. Thank you Melania. #2024Trump
— Anthony (@PGAantman1177) December 16, 2021
Good luck and thank you for everything you are doing for our country.
— Johnny McCrary (@johnmccrary_) December 16, 2021
More grift & money laundering? Remember when it’s you getting the visit from the Feds, your orange husband will throw you under the bus.
— Liz BeyBey 💛🎄🎅🏽🎁🎄💛 (@liz_beybey) December 16, 2021
Mrs. Melania Trump, I pray all of ur plans will prevail
— Brett rosemann (@BrettRosemann) December 16, 2021
— Paul Rosenberger (@DrRosenRosen19) December 16, 2021
The primary use of NFTs is for money laundering. Consider us unsurprised.
— Jamie Saker (@jamiesaker) December 16, 2021
Merry Christmas Monster.
— Joan of Snarc ❤️🇺🇸🏹 (@Joan_of_Snarc) December 16, 2021
pic.twitter.com/9jVFlwBJrf
“Passion for art.” 🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/Sgw0L63glj
— FeysPerson (@FeysPerson) December 16, 2021
In January 2022, Mrs Trump will have an auction that will incorporate physical artwork, digital artwork, and a physical “one-of-a-kind accessory.”
NFTs have grown in popularity as artists, and other people ventured into different ways to make money or invest during the coronavirus pandemic.
Trump’s NFT endeavour is her first major initiative since leaving the White House in January.
As the first lady, she launched the Be Best campaign, which focused on online safety and wellbeing of children across the US.
This article was amended on 16 December 2021. A line originally said that those who want to collect the digital files can purchase them using crypto and credit card purchases through MoonPay but that is not the case.
