An Artist’s Vision for Reimagining a Historic Cathedral
When asked how to breathe new life into a sacred space, artist Adam Cvijanovic embraced the challenge of creating a mural for New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Despite the long gap since the church last featured a major work of art, Cvijanovic felt honored to join a centuries-long tradition of religious creativity—even if that legacy also came with its share of pressures.
Drawing on the techniques of old-world masters while infusing a distinctly American spirit, Cvijanovic devised a mural titled “What’s So Funny About Peace, Love and Understanding.” Now prominently placed in the cathedral’s entrance area, the work aims to energize one of the country’s most cherished parish churches. Cardinal Timothy Dolan noted that even longtime admirers of the cathedral felt that its entry was once too gloomy. “There’s already enough dreariness out there,” he explained, emphasizing the need for bright, uplifting surroundings inside a place of worship.
Originally, Dolan envisaged a scene inspired by an 1879 event in the Irish village of Knock, where villagers claimed to have witnessed a vision of the Virgin Mary—a moment that came in the same year the cathedral opened its doors to serve Irish immigrants. As Cvijanovic took hold of the commission, Dolan’s initial idea evolved into a broader celebration of the enduring journey of faith and migration. He recalled suggesting that the mural could honor not only the holy figures but also the spirit of immigrants, a theme that resonates deeply with New York’s history and the American dream.
The mural now interweaves elements of that original vision with other significant narratives in American Catholic history. It features depictions of sacred events like the Apparition at Knock alongside portraits of figures such as Mother Frances Cabrini—the first American citizen to be canonized—and poignant scenes portraying nineteenth-century immigrants arriving in New York. The artwork even hints at the modern experiences of those still waiting to be embraced as part of the community.
When asked whether the project risked becoming mired in controversy, Dolan responded candidly. While he acknowledged that some have interpreted the work as a political statement, he maintained that its true purpose is to affirm a simple yet powerful idea: all people deserve to be treated with respect. His own reflections on current debates over immigration—along with personal dismay at exclusionary attitudes in some local communities—underscore his belief that compassion should always take precedence over politics.
For Cvijanovic, it was impossible to completely separate art from the political climate of today. He observed a growing acceptance of harshness in the public discourse but stressed that the church’s role remains rooted in welcoming every individual. His mural, imbued with both rich Catholic imagery and broader cultural symbolism, seeks to resonate not only with the devout but also with the diverse residents of New York City.
Cardinal Dolan envisions the newly revitalized entrance as a vibrant counterpoint to the world’s hardships. To him, the lasting measure of his work will not be in the beauty of a restored facade or a celebrated mural, but in whether his legacy is remembered for truly welcoming those in need—mirroring the unconditional hospitality that lies at the heart of his faith.
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