For a few weeks, Palazzo Braschi in Rome will host the works of art that many artists have dedicated to Pope Paul VI.
The exhibition “Paul VI, the Pope of artists,” shows this pope's passion for art and admiration of the artists of his time.
GIUSEPPE LEPORE
Curator, “Paul VI, the Pope of artists”
“He had a very close relationship with art. He was the leading figure of the Vatican, which alone houses works by the most important artists of all time. He paid attention to the artists of the time, the modern artists. He was interested in the world of art and to what their works wanted to express.”
Pope Paul VI wanted to restore a sense of friendship between artists and the Church. That's why, in 1964 he met with great artists such as Enrico Manfrini, Eugenio Scorzelli, and Luciano Minguzzi. He asked them to take “the treasures of the heavenly spirit, and cover them with words, colors, forms and accessibility.”
In other words, he wanted them to create pieces of art that could reflect the Christian message in a relatable way.
GIUSEPPE LEPORE
Curator, “Paul VI, the Pope of artists”
“Rome is a city full of art, all its history was built from art. I think it is very important that both Romans and tourists admire these works that couldn't be seen until now. These works reflect the importance of Paul VI as Pope, his humanity, his sensitivity and the characteristics that made his pontificate great.”
All these pieces were donated to Pope Paul VI. In some, the pontiff himself appears. While in others there are representions of Biblical images or saints. This exhibition brings together what this pope dreamed of, the“beauty that unites generations and makes them communicate in admiration.”
