Sculptor Spent $100,000 on Unwanted Charlie Kirk Statue

New York-based sculptor Sergio Furnari has spent $100,000 of his personal funds to create a lifesize statue of Charlie Kirk, a far-right activist. Furnari, who is originally from Italy, had anticipated the sculpture would generate millions of dollars in sales. However, as of July 20, 2026, Furnari has not received any offers to purchase the artwork. Instead, he reported being inundated with messages from individuals stating their intention to vandalize the statue, including urinating on it.

Furnari intended to display the statue in Times Square, believing it would be a significant financial success. The sculpture was not commissioned by any party, meaning Furnari undertook the project solely on his own initiative and financial investment. The lack of interest from potential buyers, coupled with the hostile messages, has left the sculptor reportedly furious and disappointed with the outcome of his substantial investment.

The statue depicts Charlie Kirk, a prominent figure in conservative activism. Furnari's expectation of a multi-million dollar return highlights a significant disconnect between his artistic and financial projections and the market reception for the piece. The artist's decision to invest such a large sum without a commission underscores his personal conviction in the project's potential, which has not materialized.