Pope Francis Visits Venice Biennale, Highlights Art's Role in Social Change

During his first trip outside Rome in months, Pope Francis visited a women's prison and the Venice Biennale, emphasizing the transformative power of art and the need for societal inclusivity.

Pope Francis visited the Venice Biennale's pavilion at a women's prison, marking his first visit to the art festival and highlighting the role of art in rehabilitation and social change.
The Pope met with inmates and artists, stressing the importance of art in addressing issues like racism, xenophobia, and inequality.
Artworks at the Biennale include contributions from inmates and feature themes of rebirth and solidarity, reflecting the Pope's focus on marginalized communities.
Francis also presided over a mass in St. Mark's Square and discussed the challenges Venice faces from climate change and overtourism.
The visit, filled with symbolic gestures like washing prisoners' feet, underscores the Pope's ongoing advocacy for the marginalized and the role of culture in fostering community.

Voice of America (VOA News)

South China Morning Post