Welcome to Episode 6 of my podcast, When in Rome, Touch the Art! In this episode, I introduce you to one of my favorite sculptures, Be Welcoming.

Located in the busy St. Peter’s Square right in front of the health clinic for the homeless, this piece serves as a powerful and symbolic face for the vulnerable.

I share the inspiration behind the sculpture, which is grounded in the poetic scripture of Hebrews 13:2: "Be welcoming to strangers, many have entertained angels unawares".

I dive into the artistic design of the bronze, explaining how the transformation happens sequentially—as you approach, a rough, torn stranger turns into a smooth angelic form, complete with a backpack that becomes wings and a soft face with a subtle smile.

I discuss the deep personal meaning behind this installation, which was the final sculpture commissioned by Pope Francis to be installed in Rome just two weeks before he passed away.

Presented to the Pope by Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, the sculpture stands as a three-dimensional tribute to both the scripture and the Pope's legacy of driving this message within our culture.

I talk about my philosophy of keeping art accessible on the streets rather than hidden in galleries, inviting people to sit, touch, and engage with the message directly.

Finally, I celebrate how Be Welcoming has become a global piece, installed in pilgrimage sites and cities around the world, from Canterbury and Spain to Hong Kong, Canada, and the United States.

When in Rome, Touch the Art is a production by ⁠⁠La Machi Communication for Good Causes⁠⁠. Executive Producer: Juan della Torre.Follow the show so you don't miss an episode of Season 1!

Connect with me on social media!

Instagram: ⁠⁠@timschmalz⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠@SculptureByTimothySchmalz⁠⁠

X: ⁠⁠@timothyschmalz⁠