Ave Maria University is preparing to unveil a controversial new sculpture that will depict Jesus Christ embracing the late conservative activist and Trump ally Charlie Kirk. The artwork is scheduled to become part of the university's permanent art collection early next year, though it has already generated significant debate and mockery on social media platforms before its completion.

The sculpture was commissioned following Kirk's tragic death on September 10, when he was fatally shot by 22-year-old Tommy Robinson during a campus event at Utah Valley University. The piece is being created by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz, who estimates the sculpture will be completed within the next three to four months, according to reports from Wink News.

Schmalz explained his emotional motivation for creating the artwork, stating that Kirk's death deeply affected him as both an artist and a parent. "I was so, so moved by this horrific event that I had to share with everyone the sculpture that I was working on in my studio," Schmalz said. "Being a parent, and having a conversation with your children about this world that we live in, it just made me. It drove me to actually express something within my skill as an artist."

Despite the artist's sincere intentions, the sculpture has faced intense criticism and ridicule on social media platforms, particularly on X (formerly Twitter). Users have posted a range of negative reactions, with comments including "Love the thought, not loving the design," "This is so weird," and "I hate this with the heat of a thousand suns." Some critics focused on the sculpture's appearance, with one user writing, "I love Jesus and I am a huge fan of Charlie Kirk. It looks homoerotic. Please alter it." Others made unflattering comparisons, with comments such as "Ok this version makes him look like Gavin Newsom" and "This looks sus, they need to try again."

However, students at Ave Maria University have offered a more positive perspective on the planned sculpture, expressing appreciation for the tribute to Kirk's influence on their lives. Azalea Daniel, a student at the university, spoke highly of Kirk's impact, saying, "Charlie Kirk played a huge role in my life, and I believe a lot of people's lives here. And so I think that his passing meant a lot. And I think coming to campus, the sculpture, it's great, I am so happy."

Sophomore Francesca Pieniadz emphasized the sculpture's symbolic value for the faith-based institution and its student body. She viewed the artwork as an important reminder for students to maintain their convictions despite external pressures. "It's a really good reminder to, like, stand up for what you believe in, it being a faith-based school, to just stay firm in those beliefs no matter what," Pieniadz explained. The sculpture is expected to serve as a lasting memorial to Kirk's conservative activism and his influence on young people at the Catholic university.