David Rubenstein Acquires ‘Blue’ Sculpture After Its Removal from Kennedy Center

Billionaire philanthropist David Rubenstein has acquired the abstract sculpture titled “Blue”, which was taken down from the Kennedy Center grounds last week, according to sources familiar with the transaction.

The piece is slated for display in the Sculpture Garden of the National Gallery of Art, the sources added.

Rubenstein, a prominent arts donor, served as chair of the Kennedy Center board until his removal in early 2025 amid President Trump’s restructuring. He currently chairs the National Gallery’s board of trustees.

He obtained the sculpture from the foundation representing artist Joel Shapiro, which received the work after its removal. Reportedly, the transaction exceeded $2 million.

Since 2019, the 24‑foot‑tall, stick‑figure sculpture stood on the Reach—an addition to the Kennedy Center partially funded by Rubenstein, co‑founder of private‑equity firm the Carlyle Group. Its sudden deinstallation, without notice or explanation, sparked numerous questions and objections from local patrons who regard it as a landmark overlooking the Potomac River.

National Gallery representatives have not yet responded to inquiries, and the timing of the sculpture’s installation remains uncertain.

The Kennedy Center board approved a two‑year, $250 million renovation initiative championed by President Trump. Officials, however, have suggested that the Reach stay open to serve as an active memorial to President John F. Kennedy, as required by law.

Artist Joel Shapiro, who passed away in 2025, gifted the sculpture to the Kennedy Center for the Reach’s opening. Following its removal, it was transferred to Shapiro’s foundation, overseen by his daughter Ivy Shapiro.

Ms. Shapiro has not yet responded to comment requests regarding the purchase. She noted last week that her father would have been “alarmed” by the sculpture’s removal from the Kennedy Center, where it was intended as a permanent installation.

The aluminum artwork, painted a vivid blue, depicts a figure mid‑kick while dancing on the grass.

“In Joel’s view, it represented one of his most significant site‑specific works, celebrating joy, freedom, and creativity,” Ms. Shapiro said last week.

President Trump, who succeeded Rubenstein as Kennedy Center chair after installing loyalists, has been advocating for a prolonged closure to address alleged renovation needs.

A federal judge temporarily halted the closure and also rejected the board’s proposal to add President Trump’s name to the center’s official title. Center officials are now seeking judicial approval to proceed with the closure and to inscribe the president’s name on the building’s marble facade, citing his role in securing congressional funding for the renovations.

This weekend, center officials intensified their push for closure, notifying the public of a ceiling hole in the Grand Foyer allegedly caused by recent storms.

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