Paolo Schmidlin (born 1964 in Milan) is an Italian sculptor. A graduate from the Brera Academy, Schmidlin lives and works in Milan.[1]
Schmidlin's work has courted controversy and censorship, particularly Miss Kitty, a depiction of Pope Benedict XVI partially clothed and wearing women's underwear.[2] The piece was supposed to be part of an exhibition in Italy at a 2007 gay pride event in Milan, but was removed from display. It had gained the attention of the Catholic Anti-Defamation League who called it "a vulgar offence" and threatened legal action if it featured in the event.[3][4] Schmidlin's portfolio also includes a depiction of Marilyn Monroe on her deathbed,[5] a photograph of which has been mistaken as a true image of Monroe.[6]
References edit
- ^ "Bette Davis Eye by Paolo Schmidlin". Imago Mundi. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^ ""Miss Kitty" by Paolo Schmidlin". How I Met Your Censor. 22 May 2013. Retrieved 27 January 2018.
- ^ "Art or insult? 12 artists who push social boundaries". New Zealand Herald. 29 April 2014. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^ Natalie Relph (13 July 2007). "Transvestite sculpture of Pope removed". Pink News. Retrieved 28 January 2018.
- ^ "Paolo Schmidlin, Marilyn Monroe". Kinneretsern. 12 February 2016. Retrieved 18 February 2018.
- ^ Mikkelson, Barbara & David P. "Marilyn Monroe Funeral Photograph" at Snopes.com: Urban Legends Reference Pages.