A new installation, depicting former President Donald Trump interacting with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, has emerged near the U.S. Capitol on Tuesday, March 10. The piece, which draws from the iconic "Titanic" scene where Jack and Rose stand at the ship's bow, features Trump in a gesture reminiscent of the film's romantic moment, with Epstein depicted as a figure gazing forward.
Entitled "King of the World," this temporary public art project is the latest creation by the anonymous collective known as The Secret Handshake. The work satirically juxtaposes the fictional romance between Jack and Rose with the real-life relationship between Trump and Epstein, particularly in the context of the recent release of previously restricted documents related to Epstein’s case.
The artist collective highlights the parallels between the film's narrative and the alleged connections between Trump and Epstein, suggesting that their relationship was similarly marked by opulence, social gatherings, and covert activities. A plaque accompanying the artwork states: “The tragic love story between Jack and Rose was built on luxurious travel, raucous parties, and secret nude sketches. This monument honors the bond between Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein, a friendship seemingly built on luxurious travel, raucous parties, and secret nude sketches.”
The installation includes a structural element resembling a ship’s bow, reinforcing its cinematic inspiration. Ten banners displaying images of Trump and Epstein are positioned on either side of the statue, reflecting the president’s previous discussions about incorporating his likeness into government buildings. This aspect of the artwork serves as a commentary on the intersection of public figures and institutional spaces.
This piece follows the Department of Justice's recent release of previously withheld FBI documents from the Epstein files, which included allegations of sexual misconduct involving Trump. According to these materials, a woman claimed she had a sexual encounter with Trump while she was between 13 and 15 years old, facilitated through Epstein. These revelations have reignited public discourse around Trump’s associations and the broader implications for political accountability.
In a statement provided to Hyperallergic, The Secret Handshake explained that the artwork aims to highlight Trump’s self-referential portrayal of himself as a leader. “The President has been referring to himself as a king in Truth Social posts, and we wanted to honor that desire to be kinged by making him a version of one of the most iconic references in American culture,” the group said.
The Secret Handshake has a history of critiquing Trump’s relationships with Epstein through various artistic expressions. One notable example was an enlarged depiction of a birthday card allegedly authored by Trump within the shape of a female form. Another earlier work featured a statue of Trump and Epstein holding hands on the National Mall, further emphasizing their perceived connection.
The installation will remain on display until Friday, March 14, offering continued public engagement with the themes of power, influence, and the complex narratives surrounding high-profile figures in contemporary society.