Perry Milou, an Upper Makefield pop artist, created the official portrait of Pope Francis for the papal visit to Philadelphia a decade ago, writes Michele Haddon for the Bucks County Courier Times.
“In those 8 hours when I created that painting, I felt something go through me,” said Milou. “It was a very special day. I remember it very clearly. I had a lot of feelings about my entire life and my childhood. It was really a full day of understanding what it’s like to forgive and to be forgiven.”
When he heard about Pope Francis’ passing on Monday, Milou began reflecting on his teachings, which often emphasized peace, acceptance, inclusivity, and compassion. He also admired the Pope’s willingness to question the church’s rigid ideology and speak out for marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals and immigrant communities.
“It’s obviously a sad day, but I think his legacy is incredible,” said the artist. “I just think he was so incredibly unique as a pope, and so forward in his fight for equality among all human beings. I think that was obviously what set him apart.”
Read more about Perry Milou, the Upper Makefield pop artist who created the official portrait of Pope Francis for the papal visit to Philadelphia a decade ago, in the Bucks County Courier Times.
