In a recent promotional video for her forthcoming memoir, Melania Trump has unapologetically defended her nude modeling career, comparing her work to that of legendary artists like Michelangelo. The former First Lady’s brazen stance has sparked widespread discussion, with critics questioning her decision to publicly align her photos with historically significant pieces of art. This bold declaration comes as part of a larger marketing strategy designed to drive interest in her memoir, Melania, set to be released on October 1.
Of course – nobody cares about her memoir.
In the 45-second video posted on her social media accounts, Melania addresses the controversy head-on, stating: “Why do I stand proudly behind my nude modeling work? The more pressing question is, why has the media chosen to scrutinize my celebration of the human form in a fashion photo shoot? Are we no longer able to appreciate the beauty of the human body?” She further underscores the artistic integrity of her modeling, aligning herself with the timeless tradition of “master artists” who have revered the human form throughout history.
The video features iconic art pieces, such as Michelangelo’s David, juxtaposed with her voiceover that calls for the appreciation of the human body as art. Although the video does not show any of her nude photos, the implication is clear—Melania wants her past work to be seen as part of a greater artistic narrative.
https://t.co/ZCTwZSqZND pic.twitter.com/FH9SRFQeUR
— MELANIA TRUMP (@MELANIATRUMP) September 18, 2024
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This isn’t the first time Melania has had to defend her modeling career, which included posing for various magazines in provocative positions, some dating back to the 1990s. During Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign, old modeling photos of Melania resurfaced, sparking media interest and public discourse. At the time, her husband, then-candidate Donald Trump, stood by her, stating that “Melania was one of the most successful models” and that these photos were “a celebration of the human body as art.” Jason Miller, a top Trump campaign advisor, echoed the sentiment, telling CNN, “There’s nothing to be embarrassed about. She’s a beautiful woman.”
Melania’s nude photos, particularly those taken by French photographer Antoine Verglas, were part of a European fashion shoot, a common practice among models during that era. While the photos generated media attention in the U.S., they were largely considered non-controversial in Europe, where the standards for fashion photography differ from American norms. In the 2016 campaign, the Trump team dismissed the photos as an attempt by the media to discredit the family, positioning them as art rather than scandalous material.
Fast forward to 2024, and Melania’s stance remains the same. She uses her memoir promotion as an opportunity to address the issue once again, clearly standing by her past and refusing to let it overshadow her legacy as a public figure. Her memoir Melania, available for pre-order on Amazon, promises to delve into her perspective, offering “the truth” about her life, her modeling career, and her time as First Lady.
The Memoir’s Marketing Push
Melania’s unapologetic attitude toward her past is part of an unusual marketing strategy for her memoir. She has posted a series of videos on her social media accounts, each one focusing on different aspects of her life. The first video teased her “truth,” indicating that the memoir will provide her personal side of the story, while the second video addressed the multiple assassination attempts on Donald Trump, questioning law enforcement’s role in protecting him. The third video, focused on her son Barron, highlighted the challenges and rewards of motherhood.
Melania’s forthcoming book marks a significant departure from the typical First Lady narrative. While most First Ladies focus on public service or charitable work in their memoirs, Melania’s book appears to be a defense of her image and legacy. Her decision to focus heavily on her personal life, including her controversial modeling career, reflects a broader effort to control her narrative in the post-White House years.
Melania has faced scrutiny not only for her nude modeling but for her reluctance to engage in traditional First Lady roles, often appearing distant from political discourse. Some critics have argued that her latest video is an extension of her indifference toward public scrutiny, while others see it as a calculated move to ensure her side of the story is heard.
Public Reactions
Public reactions to Melania’s video have been mixed. Some viewers support her stance, praising her confidence and embracing her view that the human body should be celebrated as art. Others, are simply not fans.
You’re as much of a narcissist and user as your husband
You’re not edgy or cool
You’re just another grifter
It’s ridiculous how you all are the victims when there are actual people who are in need of support- but leave it to a trump to make it about themselves.
— Seeking Justice (@combienDUtemps) September 18, 2024
— Sooska For Kamala! (@SooskaVee) September 18, 2024
Speaking of prostitutes, how do you feel about Laura Loomer being on your husband’s jet to give him Nazi propaganda — which he immediately spread to 60 million people at the debate?https://t.co/yloahhaIR6
— Jim Stewartson, Counterinsurgent 🇺🇸🇺🇦💙🎈 (@jimstewartson) September 18, 2024
I’m shocked at this. Yes she has a beautiful body but if you idiots think she posed nude to compare herself to Art well then you need help. She was an escort. She was a tacky model. Where is the nude Lesbian photo now? Please get smart
— mrs h whatever (@lindsmith27) September 18, 2024
Nevertheless, Melania continues to push forward with her memoir’s release, refusing to let the criticism deter her.
A Legacy Defined By Perception
Melania Trump’s memoir is slated to be a defining moment in how she is perceived post-White House. For someone who was often regarded as distant and detached from the political sphere, her decision to embrace her past and confront her critics head-on could be an effort to solidify her legacy beyond her husband’s presidency. Whether the public will buy into this new narrative remains to be seen.
For now, her strategy appears to be working in terms of drumming up interest for the book. As she continues to release videos and teasers, the public’s curiosity about what she will reveal in her memoir grows.
Despite the controversy, Melania Trump seems unwavering in her belief that her nude photos represent art. Her comparison to “master artists” may be bold, but it’s undeniably an attempt to reshape the public’s perception of her—one that aligns her more with the world of high art than political scandal.
Featured image via creative commons + AI
