Paladino unveils 'Cross of Joy' for World Children’s Day in Rome

By Francesca Merlo

Mimmo Paladino, one of the main exponents of the Transavanguardia movement, has made a 4 metre-tall cross, designed to adorn the first ever World Children’s Day.

Known as “The Cross of Joy”, the work of art is decorated with images that represent both Christian culture and fairy tales.

About the cross

Paladino's "Cross of Joy" will be unveiled at the opening ceremony of the two day celebration, taking place in Rome on 25 and 26 May. Speaking about the event, Paladino said that "It’s a great honour for me to create the first ‘Cross of Joy” in history”. He emphasised that the piece is especially for children, “as they are the true stars of this event” and that his decision to mix elements of Christian culture with fairytale motifs, is one “designed to spark both their imagination and ours."

It took Paladino a month to complete his creation, and the representation of the rich history of Christianity, along with the creativity of a child’s mind is perfectly in line with the goal of World Children’s Day: to celebrate and inspire the innocence and creativity of children everywhere.

Mix and match

Paladino is an artist of great curiosity who experiments with various techniques that are often very different from each other. Although in this case the technique is consistent throughout the work, the two contrasting themes reflect the artist’s varying style.

After its appearance at the Olympic Stadium, the Cross will be moved to St. Peter’s Square for the event's conclusion on Sunday 26 May, during which Pope Francis will celebrate Mass along with the children.

Attending and registering

Journalists and media personnel who wish to cover the events on May 25th and 26th need to submit their accreditation requests at least 24 hours in advance via the Holy See Press Office’s online system at press.vatican.va/accreditamenti.

There’s still time to register for the event. For more information, visit the official websites: giornatamondialedeibambini.org and worldchildrenday.org.