“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers” urges a biblical quote. Here at Welcome Plaza stands Timothy Schmalz’s “Angels Unawares” sculpture. It embodies this message.
Welcome, the Iconic Hand Sculpture, isn’t just art. It’s a profound statement. It makes us reflect on who we are as a nation.
Jacqueline Mars gifted $1.25 million for this plaza. She wanted the statue to speak to people. Young and old can contemplate the meaning. People from this country and elsewhere can experience it.
The sculpture depicts 140 diverse migrants and refugees. They come from different countries and eras. They huddle together on a boat seeking safety. Water flows around the base creating a reflecting pool. It represents tides carrying them toward a new life.
The co-owner of Mars candy company, Jacqueline Mars, sees the US as founded by immigrants. She found it meaningful that the Holy Family is included. Joseph holds carpentry tools. Mary cradles baby Jesus. They represent their flight into Egypt.
Cardinal Gregory blessed the plaza. He sees the sculpture as a reminder. It reminds us to be a welcoming people. We should open our arms to new neighbors. We should welcome those seeking freedom and possibility.
Welcome, the Iconic Hand Sculpture, is located on Catholic University’s campus. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception forms a backdrop.
The sculpture weighs 3.5 tons. It is 20 feet long. This is the second casting. Pope Francis unveiled the original in St. Peter’s Square in 2019. It marked the World Day of Migrants and Refugees.
Before finding its permanent home, Welcome, the Iconic Hand Sculpture, toured the country. It traveled 9,700 miles. It visited Boston, New York, Atlanta, and other cities.
Mark Ferguson calls the plaza a natural gateway to campus. He sees it as a green sanctuary. It’s a place for contemplation and beauty.
Large angel wings stretch skyward. They rise from the middle of the figures. The figures stand shoulder to shoulder on the boat.
The artist, Timothy Schmalz, used live models. Some were African refugees who posed in his studio. He based historical figures on Ellis Island photos.
Figures include a Muslim woman fleeing Syria. There is a Jewish man escaping Nazi Germany. A pregnant woman from Poland is present. Also an Irish boy leaving during the potato famine.
A Cherokee man clutches his face in sorrow. He is forced from his tribe’s lands during the Trail of Tears. The sculpture shows a range of ages and emotions. Some figures look forward. Some look back.
Schmalz hopes people see themselves within the sculpture.
President Garvey noted that many factors cause immigration. People seek safety, security, and a fresh start. Some are forced against their will, like enslaved people.
Cardinal Gregory compares it to the Statue of Liberty. He calls it a smaller but significant reminder. It reminds us to welcome strangers.
Several faith leaders spoke at the dedication. They noted that welcoming strangers is central to their faiths.
Reverend Randolph Hollerith wants us to remember the angels among us.
Imam Talib Shareef sees the sculpture reflecting America’s diversity.
Rabbi Esther Lederman connects the sculpture to her grandparents. They rode a boat from Europe to the new world.
Schmalz’s other artworks include sculptures of Jesus. He depicts Jesus as homeless.
The water element surrounding the sculpture is important. Mars felt strongly about it. She wanted the statue to appear floating as on a boat.
Mars hopes Welcome, the Iconic Hand Sculpture, inspires generosity. She wants it to move people. It reminds her what this country is about. “Sail on little boat forever and spread your message.”