MILWAUKEE (AP) – The Milwaukee Art Museum has handled dozens of complaints from angry Catholics and others over its plans to display a portrait of Pope Benedict that’s made from 17,000 condoms.
Milwaukee Archbishop Jerome Listecki says the museum’s decision to display the art piece called “Eggs Benedict” is insulting and callous. Some patrons have dropped their membership and at least one donor has ended financial support of the museum.
Trustees president Don Layden tells the Journal Sentinel he portrait is meant to spark a conversation about AIDS and AIDS education. Layden says the intention was not to be mocking or disrespectful.
The museum announced the acquisition of the art piece by Niki Johnson this month. But, it won’t go on display for several months because its permanent collection galleries are currently closed for renovation.
