In a rare public statement, former First Lady Melania Trump has defended her past nude modeling work, framing it as a celebration of the human form and artistic expression. The defense comes as part of a series of promotional videos for her forthcoming memoir, set to be released on October 1.
"Why do I stand proudly behind my nude modeling work?" Mrs. Trump, 54, asks in a voiceover accompanying her latest Instagram post. "The more pressing question is, why has the media chosen to scrutinize my celebration of the human form in a fashion photo shoot?"
The video features iconic artworks depicting nude figures, including Michelangelo's "David" and John Collier's "Lady Godiva," juxtaposed with her narration. "Throughout history, master artists have revered the human shape, evoking profound emotions and admiration," she continues. "We should honor our bodies and embrace the timeless tradition of using art as a powerful means of self-expression."
This is the fourth installment in a series of teasers leading up to the release of her memoir, titled simply "Melania." The former model and mother of one has taken an unconventional approach to promoting the book, utilizing personal social media accounts and intimate videos rather than traditional media interviews or appearances.
I really don’t care that you were a nude model. What I do care about is the fact that you worked as a nude model while in this country on a visitor visa, that’s illegal. You had the audacity to attack President Obama, who was born a U.S. citizen, about his birth certificate and… pic.twitter.com/rIpORe2OLX — Jules Morgan (@glamelegance) September 18, 2024
Earlier videos touched on personal and sensitive topics, including a recent assassination attempt on her husband, former President Donald Trump, and reflections on motherhood with their 18-year-old son, Barron. In one clip, she questioned law enforcement's potential role in the July 13 incident, saying, "It's time we demand answers and hold those responsible accountable."
Mrs. Trump's modeling career began in her native Slovenia before she moved to the United States. In 1995, she posed nude for a French adult magazine, and in 2000, she participated in a risqué photo shoot for British GQ aboard Donald Trump's private jet. At the time, the couple had been dating for about two years and married in 2005.
The resurfacing of these photos during the 2016 presidential campaign drew significant media attention and public scrutiny. Photographer Antoine Verglas, who conducted the GQ shoot, defended Mrs. Trump, stating she was "very reserved" and "pretty down to earth." He told ABC News, "Melania was definitely not someone who you would see in nightclubs or going out a lot. Very nice, very warm."
During the campaign, Mr. Trump and his team also defended the images. "Melania was one of the most successful models, and she did many photo shoots, including for covers and major magazines," Mr. Trump said at the time. "In Europe, pictures like this are very fashionable and common."
In her recent video, Mrs. Trump challenges the continued focus on these images. "Are we no longer able to appreciate the beauty of the human body?" she asks, suggesting that her work aligns with a long-standing artistic tradition of celebrating human anatomy.
The memoir is expected to offer Mrs. Trump's perspective on her life before and during her tenure as First Lady-a role she maintained with a level of privacy uncommon for modern occupants of the position. The book is available for pre-order in multiple editions, including a collector's version featuring full-color pages and signed copies.
It remains unclear whether Mrs. Trump will embark on a traditional book tour or participate in media interviews to promote the memoir. So far, her promotional efforts have been confined to her social media platforms, where she has been selectively sharing insights and teasers about the book's content.
