Artist’s Career in Jeopardy After Trump’s Criticism of Portrait

British artist Sarah A. Boardman, known for her official portrait of former U.S. President Donald Trump displayed in Colorado’s State Capitol since 2019, is facing significant challenges to her 41-year art career following Trump’s public criticism of her work. In March 2025, Trump described the painting as “purposefully distorted” and “truly the worst,” leading to its removal from the Capitol.

Boardman has defended her portrait, asserting that it was executed accurately and without political bias, based on an approved reference photograph. She noted that the artwork had received positive feedback until Trump’s remarks, which severely impacted her professional reputation and business. ​

The portrait was initially commissioned through a $10,000 fundraising campaign by Colorado Republicans. Following Trump’s comments, state lawmakers removed the painting and placed it in storage. Discussions are underway among legislative leaders regarding the commissioning of a new portrait that better reflects Trump’s likeness, though no formal plans have been established. ​

Boardman, who has also painted portraits of Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama for the Capitol, expressed concern over the lasting effects of this controversy on her career. She emphasized her commitment to unbiased representation in her work and lamented the incident’s negative impact on her longstanding art business.