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According to thegospelgardens.com, the Stations of the Cross will be world-renowned sculptor Timothy Schmalz’s largest project to date.
The Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe will be home to this epic project which includes 14 sculptures with life-size representations of Jesus on the day of His Crucifixion. The purpose of this art is to create a visual experience for both Christians and non-Christians to more deeply understand Christ and the Gospels.
The fourteen colossal sculptures feature a life-size representation of Jesus and the principal events of His Crucifixion in the foreground, with detailed sculpted landscape in the background, a combination that places the particular scene within its biblical context.
The combination of life-size figures and sculpted landscape elements such as trees, sky and clouds, creates an artistic setting that allows viewers to feel like they are looking into doorways of spiritual realities. Instead of a more disconnected sense that biblical figures have been pulled out of time and brought into the present world, viewers are being transported back in time to witness the events that took place during Jesus Christ’s Passion. This is more of an immersive experience.
Another key impact provided by these epic 14 monuments is that the sculptural landscapes include scenes and references from the Gospels, most notably the teachings of the parables of Jesus. The effect of this is profound; one can meditate or pray with the events of Jesus’s Passion while also contemplating His teachings.
The Gospel Gardens is scheduled to open in early 2025.
Click here to view all fourteen stations in detail.
“I believe that if I am able to create a sculpture with both beauty and intensity, it will bring many people to God’s Word.”
-Timothy Schmalz
