Melania Trump announces new line of NFTs

Judy Kurtz, The Hill via Nexstar Media Wire

Updated: Dec 16, 2021 / 10:39 AM CST

FILE – In this Aug. 24, 2020, file photo first lady Melania Trump visits an exhibit of artwork by young Americans in celebration of the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment which afforded the vote to women, at the White House in Washington. Melania Trump addresses the Republican convention from the White House, it will be the most that many Americans have seen of their first lady since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic that has come to define her husband’s administration. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

(The Hill) — Melania Trump is entering the world of NFTs, selling “breathtaking watercolor art” featuring an image of her eyes to collectors.

The former first lady made the announcement on Thursday, saying the nonfungible tokens, or NFTs, will be released in regular intervals.

The first one, titled “Melania’s Vision,” includes the painting of Trump’s eyes by artist Marc-Antoine Coulon and an audio message.

“My vision is: look forward with inspiration, strength, and courage,” Trump says in the clip.

The sales site for the NFT, priced at $186 as of Thursday morning, says it will provide the collector “with strength and hope” and “an amulet to inspire.”

A portion of the proceeds from the sale will be “donated to support children in the foster care community,” a statement said. Trump’s office didn’t respond to ITK’s request for comment about how much of the money will go to charitable efforts. Trump launched her childhood wellness platform, Be Best, while in the White House in 2018.

“I am proud to announce my new NFT endeavor, which embodies my passion for the arts, and will support my ongoing commitment to children through my Be Best initiative,” Trump, who’s kept a relatively low profile since exiting Washington, said in a statement.

“Through this new technology-based platform, we will provide children computer science skills, including programming and software development, to thrive after they age out of the foster community,” she added.

In addition to the NFTs, Trump will be launching a “one-of-a-kind auction of historical importance” next month, a news release from her office said.

Parler, the controversial social media company, will power Trump’s NFT effort, according to her office.

Trump is the latest high-profile figure to get into the NFT market, which allows holders of digital art and collectibles to track ownership. Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady announced his NFT collection earlier this month. Michael Cohen, former President Trump’s ex-personal attorney, recently said he would sell mementos from his time in prison as NFTs.