Trump Rings in 2026 at Mar-a-Lago With Auction of Jesus Painting for $2.75 M.
In a glittering kickoff to the new year, President Donald Trump hosted his annual New Year's Eve gala at his iconic Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida, where the festivities took an unexpected turn with a live art auction that saw a freshly painted portrait of Jesus Christ fetch a staggering $2.75 million. The event, held on December 31, 2025, blended high-society glamour, political star power, and charitable giving, as Trump presided over the bidding like a seasoned auctioneer. This spectacle not only highlighted Trump's flair for showmanship but also underscored the enduring appeal of his Mar-a-Lago bashes, which have become a staple of his post-presidency life and now his return to the White House. With tickets reportedly priced at $1,450 each, the party drew a crowd of influential figures, turning the night into a blend of celebration, networking, and impromptu philanthropy.
Mar-a-Lago, the opulent 126-room mansion that Trump purchased in 1985 and transformed into a private club, has long served as his "Winter White House" and a hub for Republican elite. The New Year's Eve tradition dates back over two decades, attracting celebrities, politicians, and business tycoons. Past guests have included luminaries like Martha Stewart, Serena Williams, Tiger Woods, and Rod Stewart, showcasing the estate's status as a magnet for the wealthy and famous. For 2025's farewell to the old year, the event was particularly star-studded, reflecting Trump's triumphant return to power after his 2024 election victory. As guests mingled under crystal chandeliers and amid lavish decorations, the atmosphere was electric, with live music setting the tone for a night of revelry.
The highlight of the evening came when Trump introduced artist Vanessa Horabuena, a speed painter known for her rapid, expressive creations. Horabuena, who has gained a following for her faith-inspired art and performances at conservative events, was tasked with creating a portrait of Jesus Christ live on stage. Accompanied by a band playing a slow rendition of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah," she worked on a large black canvas, swiftly bringing the image to life in front of the captivated audience. Trump praised her effusively, calling her "one of the greatest artists anywhere in the world" and marveling at her ability to produce a "beautiful portrait for the White House" slowly or an "incredible painting in literally 10 minutes." He instructed her to "draw something really special," setting the stage for what would become the night's most talked-about moment.
As the painting neared completion—a serene depiction of Jesus's face—Trump took on the role of auctioneer, opening the bidding at $100,000. With his characteristic humor, he quipped about the crowd, saying, "These people are loaded with cash, just so you know." The bids escalated quickly, with exclamations from Trump like "$1 million, woah!" punctuating the excitement. The final hammer fell at $2.75 million, won by an unidentified woman wearing a top hat, whom Trump congratulated with a jest about the buyers potentially going bankrupt. The proceeds were designated for charity, with half going to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital—a renowned institution focused on pediatric cancer—and the other half to the local sheriff's department. This charitable angle added a layer of goodwill to the extravagant affair, aligning with Trump's history of using his events to support causes.
Vanessa Horabuena, the artist behind the multimillion-dollar piece, is a rising star in the world of inspirational art. Based in Arizona, she specializes in live painting performances that blend faith, patriotism, and emotion. Her works often feature religious icons, American symbols, and motivational themes, resonating with conservative audiences. Horabuena has performed at events for organizations like Turning Point USA and has been featured on platforms such as Fox News. The Jesus portrait, created in under 10 minutes, exemplifies her speed-painting technique, where broad strokes and vibrant contrasts capture spiritual essence. While not a household name in the traditional art world, her ability to produce emotionally charged pieces on demand has earned her a niche following, and this auction represents a career high point.
The sale price of $2.75 million, while impressive for a freshly created work, pales in comparison to records set by established masters like Pablo Picasso or Andy Warhol, but it speaks to the unique context of the event. Art auctions at high-profile gatherings are not uncommon—Trump himself has a history of incorporating them into his parties—but this one stood out for its religious subject matter and rapid execution. The portrait's value lies not just in its artistic merit but in its provenance: painted live at Mar-a-Lago in the presence of the president and a roster of VIPs. Such experiential art has gained traction in recent years, with live performances adding an element of theater that enhances collectibility.
The guest list read like a who's who of politics, business, and entertainment, underscoring Mar-a-Lago's role as a power nexus. Attendees included former New York City Mayor and Trump advisor Rudy Giuliani, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara, Emirati billionaire Hussain Sajwani, filmmaker Brett Ratner (director of an upcoming Amazon documentary on Melania Trump), House Republican Tom Emmer, and Jeanine Pirro, the Attorney General for the District of Columbia. This mix of domestic and international figures highlights Trump's ongoing diplomatic engagements and his ability to draw "loaded" crowds, as he humorously noted.
Trump's New Year's resolution, shared during the event, was a simple yet poignant "peace on Earth." When pressed by reporters about foreign policy matters, such as a reported CIA-directed strike on a dock in Venezuela, he reiterated this wish, steering clear of specifics. The evening followed a busy day on social media for the president, where he posted about political rivals, tariff successes, and investigations into fraud. He labeled Colorado Governor Jared Polis a "scumbag," called George Clooney "mediocre," and accused Democrats of being "cheaters and thieves." He also boasted about his administration's economic policies, claiming they set a "world record on investments," and vowed to uncover financial scams in states like California, Illinois, and New York.
This New Year's celebration comes amid Trump's second term, which began with promises of economic revival and global stability. Mar-a-Lago, often dubbed the "Southern White House," has hosted numerous high-stakes meetings and events since Trump's first presidency. The auction's success—raising funds for children's health and law enforcement—aligns with his philanthropic efforts, though critics often point to the exclusivity of such gatherings. Art, in this context, serves as both entertainment and a vehicle for giving, blending Trump's business acumen with his public persona.
Vanessa Horabuena's rise parallels the growing market for faith-based art. Her performances, often at religious or patriotic events, tap into a niche where spirituality meets spectacle. The Jesus portrait, with its serene expression and symbolic resonance, appealed to the crowd's values, making the high bid unsurprising in a room of affluent supporters. While some may view the event as ostentatious, it exemplifies Trump's knack for turning personal milestones into memorable, newsworthy occasions.
As 2026 unfolds, this Mar-a-Lago gala sets a tone of opulence and optimism for Trump's administration. With world leaders in attendance and millions raised for charity, it reinforces his image as a dealmaker and entertainer. For art enthusiasts, the auction spotlights the intersection of creativity and celebrity, proving that even a quick sketch can command fortunes when tied to history.
The night's entertainment extended beyond the auction, with live music and dancing into the early hours. Trump's family, including First Lady Melania Trump, were present, adding a personal touch to the festivities. Melania, known for her elegance, has been the subject of recent media attention with Ratner's documentary, which promises an intimate look at her life.
In the broader context of Trump's presidency, events like this serve multiple purposes: fundraising, networking, and public relations. The inclusion of Netanyahu signals ongoing U.S.-Israel alliances, while domestic figures like Noem and Pirro highlight his administration's key players. The charitable aspect, benefiting St. Jude's—founded by entertainer Danny Thomas in 1962—and local law enforcement, aligns with Trump's "America First" agenda, emphasizing support for children and security.
Art auctions at political events are not new; presidents from Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama have hosted similar fundraisers. However, Trump's flair—joking about guests' wealth and hyping the artist—adds his signature style. Horabuena's work, often infused with Christian themes, resonates with Trump's evangelical base, making the choice of subject matter strategic.
As reactions pour in, some praise the event's success, while others critique its extravagance amid economic challenges. Social media buzzed with clips of the auction, amplifying its reach. For Horabuena, the exposure is priceless, potentially boosting her career.
Trump's 2026 start at Mar-a-Lago blends tradition with spectacle, setting the stage for a year of bold moves. Whether through tariffs or tariffs, his resolution for peace echoes amid global tensions, while the $2.75 million Jesus painting stands as a symbol of faith, fortune, and flair.
Looking ahead, Trump's agenda includes addressing fraud investigations and economic policies, as hinted in his posts. The Mar-a-Lago event, with its mix of politics and pageantry, encapsulates his approach: grand, unapologetic, and always entertaining.
FAQ
What was the event at Mar-a-Lago?
President Trump hosted a New Year's Eve gala on December 31, 2025, featuring a live art auction and high-profile guests to ring in 2026.
Who painted the Jesus portrait?
Artist Vanessa Horabuena created the portrait live on stage, known for her speed-painting and faith-inspired works.
How much did the painting sell for?
The portrait fetched $2.75 million, with proceeds split between St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the local sheriff's department.
Who attended the party?
Notable guests included Rudy Giuliani, Kristi Noem, Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara, Hussain Sajwani, Brett Ratner, Tom Emmer, and Jeanine Pirro.
What was Trump's New Year's resolution?
Trump stated his resolution was "peace on Earth," reiterated when asked about foreign policy issues.