Trump Denies Drawing Claims as Charity Auction Features His Art

In a recent development, former President Donald Trump has firmly denied claims regarding his involvement in drawing, despite evidence suggesting otherwise. Following a report by the Wall Street Journal that referenced a 2003 letter to Jeffrey Epstein containing an outline of a naked woman, Trump asserted, “I never wrote a picture in my life. I don’t draw pictures of women.” He reiterated his stance on Truth Social, stating, “I don’t draw pictures.”

However, this denial contrasts with statements from Dr. Lowery Lockard, a charity director who revealed that Trump sent her two signed drawings for an auction benefiting the Iowan nonprofit foundation Hattie Larlham in 2004. Lockard expressed her surprise and admiration for Trump’s artistic skills, stating, “I was shocked and impressed” by the quality of his doodles. She noted that the drawings included a depiction of the New York City skyline, fitting for Trump’s persona as a prominent real estate mogul.

Trump’s doodles were part of a broader initiative where approximately 150 celebrities contributed their artworks, guided by an “artist kit” that allowed them to create anything they desired. Each celebrity was required to sign a waiver, authenticating their work for auction. Lockard retains the authentication for Trump’s contributions, reinforcing the legitimacy of the signed drawings.

The controversy surrounding Trump’s denial raises questions about his previous statements. Lockard mentioned, “’Wrote a picture’ is a little bit different than drawing a doodle, I guess.” She confirmed that Trump’s doodle was created with a gold Sharpie, and emphasized the authenticity of the signature.

Trump’s artwork has garnered significant attention in auction houses, with previous pieces selling for high amounts. A drawing of a tree with dollar bills falling from it fetched $8,500, while a sketch of the Empire State Building sold for $16,000 at Julien’s Auctions in Los Angeles in 2017. Another minimalist sketch of the New York City skyline achieved a remarkable price of $29,184.

One of the signed drawings from the 2004 auction is to be re-auctioned in September 2024, with Lockard anticipating a starting bid of at least $10,000. She described the upcoming auction as having the potential to “raise a pretty penny,” particularly given the signed letter of authentication that will be included with the winning bid.

In response to questions about Trump’s drawing skills, a White House spokesperson, Steven Cheung, reiterated the former president’s claims, stating, “As the President has said, the Wall Street Journal printed fake news, and he doesn’t draw things like the outlet described.”

As the debate continues over Trump’s artistic abilities, the juxtaposition of his denials against the backdrop of verified signed drawings raises intriguing questions about the former president’s relationship with art and media representation. The forthcoming auction promises to attract significant interest, showcasing a side of Trump that contrasts sharply with his public persona.