Why this Chinese artist is creating Buddha-like Trump statues: Video
With Donald Trump's return to the White House, statues presenting him in a Buddha-like pose -cross-legged with eyes half-closed, exuding a sense of calm and meditation- are back in the trends.
Chinese artist Hong Jinshi initially designed these statues as a joke in 2021, inspired by the stark contrast between Trump's often loud and brash personality and the serene, meditative demeanour of Buddha.
The statues quickly went viral on the Chinese e-commerce platform Taobao, attracting significant attention and becoming popular.
"With Donald Trump's reelection, this statue is hot again. I still think he's just as funny [as before]. When he was not the President, people were not so interested in the news of the United States. Once he became President it seems the whole world is bustling, he is in the headlines every day again," Hong told AFP.
The statues are sold in various sizes and cost 999 to 20,000 yuan (approximately $150 to $3,000).
