Widmann Art Gallery: Blend of Sculptures and Spiritual Reflection

The Widmann Art Gallery displayed a dual exhibit featuring art sculptures and spiritual reflection during the month of March. Visitors to the gallery were able to explore John Belardo’s art pieces of The New Adam & Dante collection alongside the King’s Campus Ministry’s display of the Stations of the Cross, a perfect addition to the period of Lent.

John Belardo was educated as a sculptor at the New York Academy of Art and the Newington Cropsey Academy of Art, also gaining experience as an apprentice in the studio of Richard McDermott Miller. Belardo’s artwork is diverse with work such as monumental public installations, digital prototyping and design, and large-scale ceramic sculptures.

In 2024, Belardo was honored as the Artist in Residence at Brookgreen Gardens Center for American Sculpture, following his recognition of Artist in Residence at Chesterwood, the historic home of Daniel Chester French, in 2022. His sculptures and drawings have been exhibited across multiple states, but Belardo’s work is permanently installed at Georgetown University, Cooperstown, N.Y.,  and Lehman College CUNY. Today, Belardo is involved as a Fellow of the National Sculpture Society and a faculty member at Lehman College CUNY, the New York Academy of Art, Newington Cropsey Foundation Academy of Art, Art Students League of New York and was a visiting scholar for the Institute for American Universities.

The Stations of the Cross are a 14-step Catholic devotion that commemorates Jesus Christ's last day on Earth. With each station displaying specific events from Jesus Christ’s last day, beginning with His condemnation. The gallery gave space for visitors to spiritually reflect at each station.

The Campus Ministry at King's College provides opportunities for the entire college community to grow in faith together. Rooted in the College's Catholic identity and the tradition of the Congregation of Holy Cross, the ministry gives witness to God's unconditional love to all through prayer, fellowship, service, and reflection.

During the academic year, exhibits from talented local artists are displayed in the Widmann Art Gallery, providing audiences with a vibrant experience in the visual arts. The gallery is located on the first floor of the Sheehy-Farmer Campus Center with viewing hours Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday as arranged. The Gallery is closed on national holidays and during scheduled breaks throughout the academic year.