The Vatican has made a notable decision by appointing Maurizio Cattelan, a renowned Italian artist celebrated and criticized for his provocative artworks, as the curator for its pavilion at the Venice Biennale. Known for challenging and sometimes shocking pieces, such as a sculpture of a praying Hitler and "The Ninth Hour," depicting Pope John Paul II hit by a meteorite, Cattelan's involvement marks an intriguing blend of contemporary art with traditional religious values.
The project orchestrated by Cattelan is set to unfold as an outdoor installation within the confines of the Giudecca Women’s Prison, underscoring a unique collaboration between the inmates and the art world. The exhibition will not only showcase Cattelan's vision but also integrate works by eight diverse artists, creating a tapestry of varied perspectives and expressions. This initiative allows the prisoners to contribute creatively to the exhibition, bridging the gap between the isolated prison environment and the global art scene.
A significant component of the Vatican's exhibition is a 12-minute video installation, directed by the well-known actress Zoe Saldaña and her husband, the Italian director Marco Perego. This piece stands out as inmates from the prison are set to act in the film, offering them a platform to share their stories and talents with the broader public. Moreover, the exhibition is enriched by personal touches, such as photographs provided by the inmates for Claire Tabouret's artwork, adding layers of personal history and reflection.
The exhibition, aptly titled "With My Eyes," aims to encourage viewers to reflect on the nature of seeing and understanding the world around them, blurring the lines between religious contemplation and artistic interpretation. Curated by Chiara Parisi and Bruno Racine, the exhibition aims to provoke thought on how we construct our social, cultural, and spiritual identities. It suggests that both religious and artistic experiences demand a deep, personal involvement, transforming individuals from passive observers into active participants or witnesses.
This approach aligns with the broader themes espoused by the Vatican under the leadership of Pope Francis, emphasizing compassion, empathy, and the rehabilitation of the marginalized. Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, the Vatican’s cultural and educational minister, has articulated that this year’s pavilion theme ties back to Gospel teachings, focusing on care for the underprivileged and understanding for the incarcerated. By situating the 2024 pavilion within a women's prison, the Vatican sends a powerful message of inclusivity and redemption.
Jean Dubreil