Sculptor spent $100,000 making lifesize Charlie Kirk statue but has no takers
New York City sculptor Sergio Furnari is currently facing a difficult financial situation after spending $100,000 of his own money to create a life-sized statue of the late Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk. The artist utilized steel and resin to construct the figure, which depicts the activist holding a microphone. Despite his efforts, the statue remains unsold and without a permanent home.
Furnari stated that his motivations were not rooted in political alignment, as he disagreed with Kirk on various issues during the activist's life. Instead, the sculptor described his project as an attempt to honor the First Amendment and create a commemorative piece for the public. He drew parallels between his work and historical art pieces that capture specific moments and figures in time.
Financial returns on this investment have been minimal. An online fundraiser set up to cover material costs has only generated $8,225 to date. The sculptor has expressed significant frustration with the lack of public support, describing the current situation as a nightmare while citing his own recent injury as an additional hardship.
Looking ahead, Furnari has outlined a plan to display the monument in Times Square on September 10. This date marks the one-year anniversary of the shooting at Utah Valley University that resulted in the death of the 31-year-old activist. He intends to invite local government officials to the unveiling ceremony while he continues to seek a buyer for the piece.