David Rubenstein buys removed Kennedy Center sculpture

Philanthropist David Rubenstein has purchased ‘Blue’, an abstract aluminum sculpture by Joel Shapiro, for more than $2 million. The artwork was recently removed from the grounds of the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts without prior notice or explanation, an action that drew significant public objection.

Rubenstein, who serves as the chairman of the board of trustees at the National Gallery of Art, purchased the piece from the artist’s foundation. The sculpture is slated to be displayed in the Sculpture Garden of the National Gallery of Art.

The removal follows a period of leadership changes at the Kennedy Center. Rubenstein previously served as the center’s board chairman until he was removed in early 2025. Meanwhile, the institution faces ongoing pressure regarding potential closures for renovations, a move supported by the Trump administration, though a judge has temporarily blocked such a closure.