Welcome to Episode 2 of my podcast, When in Rome, Touch the Art! In this episode, I introduce one of my best-known sculptures, Homeless Jesus.

I share why I placed it without a pedestal, directly on the streets of Trastevere — a space where people can sit close, interact, and encounter the sacred within the marginalized.

I also dive into my philosophy of Catholic art as a way of pulling the eternal truths of Scripture into physical form, why religious sculpture must be raw and intense to reach a spiritually starving world, and why I left the face of Jesus covered — an element of theatrical mystery and discovery that mirrors the very moment of ambiguity and reveal in Matthew 25.

Finally, I trace how a piece that first had no home became a viral, global phenomenon: blessed by Pope Francis and installed in major historical locations around the world.

When in Rome, Touch the Art is a production by La Machi Communication for Good Causes
Executive Producer: Juan della Torre
Follow the show so you don't miss an episode of Season 1!

Connect with me on social media!

Instagram: @timschmalz

Facebook: @SculptureByTimothySchmalz

X: @timothyschmalz

Welcome to Episode 1 of my podcast, When in Rome, Touch the Art!
In this episode, I take you behind the creation of Angels Unawares, permanently installed right in the heart of St. Peter’s Square. I share what it was like to receive this historic commission from the Vatican Department of Migrants and Refugees and how a bronze boat carrying 140 figures became one of the few new sculptures added to the Square in centuries.
I also dive into my philosophy of Catholic art as a visual homily, why religious sculpture must be raw and engaging for today's world, and the powerful story of how Cardinal Konrad Krajewski defended the piece by reminding critics that "it matches the Gospels."
When in Rome, Touch the Art is a production by La Machi Communication for Good Causes
Executive Producer: Juan della Torre
Follow the show so you don't miss an episode of Season 1!

Welcome to the very first episode of my podcast, When in Rome, Touch the Art!

In Episode 0, I take you inside my brand-new studio located just steps from St. Peter’s Square in Rome. I share what this historic and spiritual setting means for my work, serving as an initial canvas where I design, sketch, and build the small-scale maquettes that eventually become large bronze sculptures.

I also dive into my personal process, share my conviction that art can visually preach, break down barriers, and show that sacred art is very much alive today.

When in Rome, Touch the Art is a production by La Machi Communication for Good Causes.

Executive Producer: Juan della Torre

Follow the show so you don't miss an episode of Season 1!