In a surprising move that left many faithful followers stunned, Pope Francis welcomed approximately 200 avant-garde artists, including controversial photographer Andres Serrano, to the hallowed halls of the Sistine Chapel. The gathering was organized to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vatican’s collection of contemporary art. In his address to the artists, the pontiff drew parallels between their work and the prophetic voices of biblical times, acknowledging their ability to challenge societal norms and expose falsehoods.
Addressing the artists directly, Pope Francis stated, “You confront things that at times are uncomfortable; you criticize today’s false myths and new idols, its empty talk, the ploys of consumerism, the schemes of power.” He praised their unique perspective, which allowed them to perceive both depth and breadth in their art, enabling them to serve as sentinels, searching the horizon for deeper truths. The pope urged them to reject the superficial beauty celebrated by contemporary society, which often perpetuates economic inequality.
Among the artists present was Andres Serrano, known for his controversial 1987 work titled “Piss Christ,” depicting a crucifix submerged in a glass of urine. The photograph stirred significant controversy upon its exhibition in 1989, with critics condemning it as blasphemous. Despite identifying as Catholic, Serrano claimed to have used his own urine in the creation of the artwork. The piece’s display was partially funded by the taxpayer-supported National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), leading to outrage from numerous U.S. lawmakers and subsequent budget cuts for the NEA.
Pope Francis’s inclusion of artists such as Serrano reflects his desire to challenge conventional norms and embrace artistic freedom and freedom of speech. The pontiff’s decision to invite controversial figures did not stop at Serrano; he also extended his welcome to Abel Ferrara, director of the recent film featuring Shia LaBeouf as Padre Pio. Ferrara, known for his provocative filmmaking, gained initial recognition in 1976 with his pornographic film “Nine Lives of a Wet Pussy,” followed by the dark and disturbing 1979 slasher movie “The Driller Killer.”
During his address, Pope Francis hailed the artists as critical consciences and allies in various causes dear to him, including the defense of human life, social justice, care for the poor, environmental concerns, and universal human fraternity. He acknowledged their role as visionaries and commended their efforts to unmask truisms, provoke thought, and reveal uncomfortable realities that often remain hidden.
ICYMI: #PopeFrancis warmly welcomed Andres Serrano at #Vatican, creator of the 1987 ‘Piss Christ’ image & numerous explicit/blasphemous works.
Serrano said that Francis’ greeting was with full knowledge of who he was: “it was a great, mischievous smile.”https://t.co/PUIbEnp4lr— Michael Haynes 🇻🇦 (@MLJHaynes) June 27, 2023
