Inspiring sculpture by Timothy Schmalz (website, facebook) to be installed at Shrine of Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy.
Timothy describes his experience: ”The whole time I was working on the sculpture a strange experience happened, I could not stop thinking of all the vile sins I created in my life. It was like a movie on repeat. After I was done with this, my thoughts broadened to worst sins that where created in my country, murders horrific that I heard of in the news. I could not believe what I was thinking and I could not prevent my thoughts from going to these dark places. After days of this, I thought, how horrible, I am creating a sculpture of a saint and this is what is going on inside of me? Then I understood that I was creating a sculpture of a saint who was known for confessions, In fact St. Pio has become the Patron Saint of Confessions. What was happening to me was a long confession throughout the creation of the sculpture. The Gloom I experience was then replaced with peace when after each horrific image that past through my mind was prayed with, and asked for forgiveness; my deeds and those of others. A fascinating journey creating this work.” (+)
