Archive · 20 Jun 2025
‘Dictator Approved’ Sculpture Appears on National Mall
A new statue showed up in Washington D.C., and it's a big golden hand giving a thumbs-up while squashing the Statue of Liberty.
The artists made this statue to make a statement about the previous president and what they think about his actions.
They put quotes from other world leaders known for being authoritarian on the base of the statue.
The statue's creators got permission to put it up, and people have very mixed feelings about it - some love the art, others are not happy about it.
It is meant to make people think about what kind of government they want.
A gold-painted hand sculpture crushing the Statue of Liberty appeared on the National Mall.
The sculpture, titled "Dictator Approved," is intended to criticize former President Donald Trump.
The artwork's creators cited a military parade as inspiration, drawing parallels to oppressive regimes.
The sculpture's base features quotes from world leaders like Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un.
The National Park Service issued a permit for the statue to be displayed for one week.
- Who
- The artwork's creator, Mary Harris as permit applicant.
- What
- A sculpture called "Dictator Approved," depicting a gold hand crushing the Statue of Liberty.
- When
- June 16 to June 22.
- Where
- The National Mall in Washington D.C.
- Why
- To criticize the Trump administration and draw parallels to authoritarian regimes.
Pro-Criticism
Anti-Criticism
Freedom of expression
Pro-Criticism
The statue is an example of free speech.
Anti-Criticism
The statue is hateful rhetoric.
- Title
- "Dictator Approved"
- Location
- National Mall, Washington D.C.
- Permit Dates
- June 16 - June 22
- Height
- 8 feet tall
- Permit Applicant
- Mary Harris