David Rubenstein, who served as the chairman of the Kennedy Center for many years, has acquired the 24-foot sculpture titled 'Blue' shortly after its removal from the center’s property. The sculpture, a prominent fixture at the venue, was dismantled and taken down last week.

Rubenstein’s purchase comes following his exit from the Kennedy Center board last year. According to reports, Rubenstein and several of his fellow board members were removed from their positions as part of a broader leadership change initiated by the Trump administration. The administration subsequently appointed new members to the board to replace the outgoing leadership team.

The removal of the 'Blue' sculpture from the Kennedy Center grounds prompted questions regarding its future, which have now been addressed by Rubenstein’s private purchase. While the sculpture is no longer on public display at the center, its acquisition by the former chair ensures its preservation in a private capacity. The Hill reports that the transition of the board was part of a deliberate effort by the administration to install its own allies into the organization's governance structure.