A new sculpture is set to arrive at Ave Maria University, honoring the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
The piece, designed by Canadian artist Timothy Schmalz, is expected to become part of the university’s permanent art collection early next year.
Students at Ave Maria University expressed excitement about the sculpture’s arrival. One student, Azalea Daniel, shared her thoughts on Kirk’s influence.
“Charlie Kirk played a huge role in my life, and I believe a lot of people’s lives here. And so I think that his passing meant a lot. And I think coming to campus, the sculpture, it’s great, I am so happy,” said Daniel.
The sculpture will depict Jesus Christ embracing Kirk, who was shot and killed on September 10 during a campus event at Utah Valley University. Schmalz explained his connection to the project.
“I was so, so moved by, by this, this horrific event that I had to share with everyone, the sculpture that I was, I was working on in my studio, but the President said, I want as soon as you’re done it, I want the first bronze cast,” said Schmalz.
Schmalz also spoke about his inspiration for the piece, revealing a personal connection.
“Being a parent, and having a conversation with your children about this world that we live in, it just made me. It drove me to actually express something within my skill as an artist,” said Schmalz.
Francesca Pieniadz, a sophomore at the university, shared how the sculpture serves as a reminder for her. “It’s a really good reminder to, like, stand up for what you believe in, it being a faith-based school, to just stay firm in those beliefs no matter what,” said Pieniadz.
Schmalz expects the sculpture to be completed within the next three to four months. The university has yet to announce where it will be placed on campus.