When Carmelo Grasso, the director and curator of the Abbey of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice, encountered Barry X Ball's sculpture Pope Saint John Paul II (2012-24), he envisioned a remarkable exhibition within the church's stunning architecture. Titled "The Shape of Time" and curated by Bob Nickas, this showcase features 23 pieces, many of which are being displayed publicly for the first time. The centerpiece, a striking representation of the pontiff who rose to global prominence in the 1970s and '80s, is prominently placed in the choir, where its gleaming metals contrast beautifully with the dark wood of the surrounding benches.
Measuring just over two feet tall, Pope Saint John Paul II captures immediate attention with its intricate filigree of silver and 18-karat gold, reminiscent of sacred reliquaries. Crafted in collaboration with the esteemed Italian jewelry house Damiani, this piece took twelve years to complete. It honors a Polish pope, a significant departure from the Italian lineage of the papacy, whose fame eclipses that of contemporary leaders.
During a recent walkthrough, Ball shared insights about John Paul's multifaceted life, noting his involvement in the Solidarity movement, his love for sports, and his artistic inclinations. Hidden within the elaborate sculpture are references to historical figures such as Hitler and Stalin, alongside personal symbols like a pair of skis and a bullet, which allude to the 1981 assassination attempt on his life. Ball emphasized John Paul's remarkable act of forgiveness towards his would-be assassin, highlighting the pontiff's commitment to peace.
San Giorgio Maggiore, designed by Andrea Palladio and completed in 1610, serves as an ideal backdrop for Ball's richly detailed works, which utilize materials such as Belgian and Vietnamese marbles and Iranian onyx. The Benedictine community at San Giorgio Maggiore values the integration of contemporary art into its mission, aiming to revive the historical connection between religion and artistry. This initiative has welcomed renowned artists like Anish Kapoor and Ai Weiwei to showcase their works in this revered space.
Ball's exploration of art history is evident in his "Masterpieces" series, which includes a reinterpretation of Michelangelo's Pietà (2011-22) in translucent Iranian onyx. He challenges traditional notions of sculpture by employing advanced technology alongside meticulous handcrafting, demonstrating a blend of the ancient and the modern.
Among his notable pieces is Saint Bartholomew Flayed (2011-20), inspired by a 16th-century work, rendered in a striking "bloody" red marble. Ball's approach has garnered critical acclaim, with reviews highlighting his ability to fuse contemporary techniques with classical themes.
With three stone renditions of the Buddha displayed in the sacristy, this exhibition marks a significant moment in the church's history, as it embraces ecumenical themes reflective of John Paul's inclusive vision. Ball's work, which unites stones from across the globe, serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of cultures and ideas.
"Barry X Ball - The Shape of Time" is on view at the Basilica di San Giorgio Maggiore, Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore 2, 30124, from May 9 to November 22, 2026.
