"Angels Unaware" The Work of Sculptor Timothy Schmalz

AGORAS
Apr 2
3 min read

Updated: Apr 3

A short documentary by Nicolas Rossier

Timothy P. Schmalz is a Canadian sculptor from Elmira, Ontario. He has spent more than two decades crafting sculptures channeling the essence of biblical scripture. His creations have graced some of Christianity's most revered sites, from St. Peter's Basilica to Fatima, bearing a global testament to his artistic vision. Schmalz is perhaps best known for his evocative piece Homeless Jesus, inspired by a moment of clarity while witnessing homelessness on the streets of Toronto. He conceives his pieces with a keen devotion to Jesus's life message. An avid follower of the saints' life and the High Renaissance sculptors, Tim is also an avid reader of French Christian philosopher Rene Girard.

In this documentary portrait, I sought to offer a window into the mind of a contemporary artist who does not shy away from the prophetic dimensions of his craft. Schmalz's work, as much as his persona, challenges our assumptions—about art, faith, and how beauty can both disturb and inspire. Ultimately, I think his work is "ART" that refuses to be ignored. You can't look away. The energy of the sculptures instantly draws you in. I chose to call this story "Angels Unaware" after one of Tim's most significant sculptures. The piece - featured in the documentary - was installed in St. Peter's Square in the Vatican on September 29, 2019, during the 105th World Day of Migrants and Refugees. It shows a crowd of migrants on a boat headed toward new lands. It speaks to the struggle of the modern-day migrant and was inspired by the Bible verse Hebrew 13:2: "Be welcoming to strangers for many have entertained angels unawares." Hebrew 13 is timely verse today as the current government is engaged with new controversial policies towards legal and illegal migrants.

The immigration debate has been a central focus of our partisan war in DC. Both parties are using the issue of immigration in a bitter partisan boxing match often, forgetting that behind the rhetorics are mothers, fathers, and children fleeing war zones and famines for a better future. The teachings of the Bible, especially in certain verses like Hebrews 13:1-3, highlight the central theme of compassion, hospitality, and seeing the dignity of all people—especially strangers, the marginalized, and those in need. Let's never forget that Jesus was a refugee as a child when he fled to Egypt with his family (Matthew 2:13-15), and throughout his ministry, he constantly reached out to foreigners and the outcasts. His story of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) directly challenges nationalistic attitudes, urging people to see neighbors not by borders or ethnicity but by love and mercy.

Schmalz's art is an experience that can transcend people's faith. When I first saw his work, I was moved by its raw power. Visiting his studio in Elmira only deepened my impression. Every piece was monumental in scope and demanded contemplation. His sculptures possess an undeniable force that has the potential to pull the viewer into a dialogue with themes of suffering and grace.