DESCRIPTION: Visual representations of the gospel of Matthew 25, the sculptures suggest that Christ is with the most marginalized in our society. These sculptures will be cast in bronze metal and will last for centuries to come.
PURPOSE These works of art will not only raise awareness of the marginalized in our society to those that encounter them, but will also challenge and inspire people to be more compassionate and charitable and to act upon that inspiration.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Timothy P. Schmalz is a world-renowned sculptor of Christian themed works from Saint Jacobs, Ontario, Canada, and has a true vocation for creating sacred Art.
“I am devoted to creating artwork that glorifies Christ. The reason for this devotion, apart from my Christian beliefs, is that an artist needs an epic subject to create epic art. I describe my sculptures as being visual prayers. When I create a three dimensional sculpture in bronze I am quite aware that it will last longer than myself. I realize I am between two things that are much more durable than myself: Christianity and bronze metal. It is between these that I have developed a subtle appreciation for what Saint Francis meant by “instrument”. Creating art that has the power to convert. Creating sculpture that deepens our spirituality. Attaining these two goals describes my purpose as an artist.” Timothy P. Schmalz.
The “Homeless Jesus” The sculpture that started it all, a modern masterpiece, that is truly touching people in many major cities around the world. News of the sculpture and the dialogue it instigates is unprecedented from a work of fine art in our time.
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Jesuits share the image of the piece with the Vatican, and Tim is invited to meet Pope Francis and have the original model blessed by his Holiness.
Pope Francis blesses the five foot model on Nov. 20th 2013, touches the foot and calls it “a beautiful piece of art.” Tim donates the model to the Vatican Archives. After this, the sculpture is covered by news outlets around the world. When Schmalz sees Pope Francis touch the sculpture, he thinks "Well that's just it; this sculpture is symbolically representing what he's doing. He's out there touching the homeless people; he's reaching out to them every single day." News\History
**A bronze cast of the sculpture is now placed at the Papal Office of Charities building at the Vatican in Rome.
Above: The location of the “Homeless Jesus” sculpture in Rome.
Photos of the Sculpture in Rome at the Vatican.
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“When I Was Hungry and Thirsty”
Tim was in Rome in the following months after creating this sculpture. He had learned of the history of Santo Spirito Hospital near the Vatican and how it was the one of the oldest functioning hospitals in the world and was the first in Rome to start treating the sick and lame without remuneration. Timothy was moved to meet the administrator and show him the sculpture. It was meant to be, he loved the work and wanted it placed on the steps of the entrance where it is located today.
Above right: The original bronze located at Santo Spirito Hospital, Rome, Italy.
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“When I Was Sick”
The original bronze casting of this new masterpiece is anticipated to join the piece above along the sidewalk of Santo Spirito Hospital in Rome, where it will inspire generations to come.
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“When I Was in Prison”
Another striking work of art that captures the essence of the gospel message for a group of marginalized people that are “out of sight an d out of mind” in society today. This piece will be installed and on permanent display at St. Paul’s Basilica in Rome.
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“When I Was A Stranger”
An interactive sculpture concept that is truly inspired. The image of Jesus is that of a vagabond\transient homeless with his life in a tattered bag on His back, a homeless traveler being welcomed or perhaps alienated from society (social circle) depending on your interpretation.
Original will be located in the interior of San Lorenzo in Lucina. (Church and interior shown above)
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“When I Was Naked”
The final piece is a life size sculpture entitled “When I Was Naked”. A stunning depiction by this modern master sculptor that is sure to leave many speechless when encountering the original at St. Peter’s in Chains Basilica in Rome.