Abbé Pierre in erection: the shocking work of James Colomina to denounce abuses in the Church

This Friday, November 1, 2024 at noon, the deconsecrated church of Gesù in Toulouse welcomes a new work by James Colomina. Titled Silence — which means “silence” in Latin — this white resin creation depicts Abbé Pierre on his deathbed, erect. The founder of Emmaüs is accused of sexual assault and inappropriate behavior.

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In this striking sculpture, a detail under the sheet attracts attention: a bump marking a reminder of the sordid realities, often overlooked, of abuse within the Church. Silence is exhibited in an old church. This creation “invites us to look in the face of realities that are still silenced,” explains James Colomina, emphasizing the importance of lifting the veil on this suffering.

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To reinforce the atmosphere of the work, liturgical chants in Latin resonate in the church, emphasizing the solemn and introspective character of the installation. Colomina confides: “I have long believed that sacred symbols should remain untouchable […]. If the Church has attempted to conceal certain truths, then it is up to society to lift the veil.”

The artist makes a significant change in style here by swapping red, a color often associated with denunciation in his street works, for a symbolic and introspective white. He believes that “white directs attention to the form and essence of the sculpture, inviting silence and contemplation.”