Neil Benson

Philadelphia VisionsCloth, plastic, foam core, LED lights, Metal

This piece is formed into the shape of the Pope’s Mitre, a highly recognized religious object, inset with lighted figurines resembling Mary and Joseph, a crystal of the virgin mother with child and on the top, a molded image of the Mary, ascended into sainthood as emphasized by the metalwork to symbolize illumination. The arrangement suggest a more earthly origin of the Christ with an emphasis on Mary as the central object of worship.

Kathleen Vaccaro

ForwardOil on Board

This painting features a scene that is a stark contrast to the traditional narrative of the Great Commission. The yell of the clergyman and the dark and treacherous scenery creates a sense of impending gloom highlighted by the grimaced face of the elderly woman as well as the followers in the mid-ground of the painting, who seem to be restrained lead off to some land distant from any familiarity.

Kathleen Vaccaro

David was a WomanAcrylic on canvas

This large scale painting offers an interesting take on an all too familiar story of David as he prepares to face the giant Goliath. Without additional context, this painting wouldn’t seem particularly unusual and it is upon inspection of the title that warrants further investigation. Nothing within the painting offers any impression to the gender of the subject, which leads the viewer to look to other details for a narrative. The clouds break and ray of light shine upon the figure, ash she steps upon the stone, granting a sense of hope. The source of the shadow cast on the figure comes into question, whether it come from the environment or the subject’s adversary.

Harold Kalmus

IconHydrocal, painted

This statue takes the typical portrayal of an icon swapping it for a female nude, contrasting the mostly male-centric aspect and shedding traditional ideas of modesty expected of religious artwork Interestingly enough, the figure holds a calm and stoic expression that negates any sense of eroticism. Modeled after Leonardo Da Vinci’s Salvatore Mundi, Icon transfigures the Christ into female form.

Lou Serna

Bingo JesusWood, metal, earrings, cardboard

This simple juxtaposition of a crucifix and a bingo card, this piece summons a familiar, if somewhat stereotypical gaff at religion, that it is for the older members of our society, relegated to early bird meals and nights at the bingo hall. The positioning of the piece seems rather appropriate as it can easily be pictured hanging on the wall of a church, community center, or even in someone’s kitchen. The lighting provides a strong effect as if the windows of Heaven open upon it.

Ann Keech

LOVE Philly Food with FrancisMixed Media

This is a humorous take on The Last Supper, portraying the current Pope Francis in the center, offered a bevy of culinary offerings that can be found in the city of Philadelphia. It contrasts the the serious tone and modest meal that is associated with imagery of The Last Supper, creating a scene that is lighthearted and festive. Maybe during his visit, the Pope gets a chance to sample the local fare of the city.