From Patti Smith to Spike Lee: the Pope's cultural encounters

Pope Leon XIV's cultural engagements reveal a complex relationship with intellectuals and artists, marked by discretion and a lack of public discourse. Unlike his predecessors, he has not established a recognizable circle of confidants, making it challenging to discern his artistic preferences. Despite this, he actively meets with various cultural figures, emphasizing the importance of human creativity against algorithmic logic. His discussions with artists highlight a deep understanding of their societal roles, advocating for artistic freedom and the need for a renewed alliance between the Church and the arts. Participants describe him as attentive and engaged, focusing on dialogue rather than doctrine, aiming to place God at the center of contemporary cultural discussions.