The Vatican City/papal flag consists of two equal vertical stripes of yellow and white (with the insignia of the papacy on the white stripe), a triple tiara over two crossed keys, one of gold and one of silver, tied with a red cord and two tassels. The divisions of the tiara represent the teaching, sanctifying and governing offices of the pope. The keys symbolize his role as the successor of St. Peter and the universal spiritual authority of the Holy Father. The papal flag is also a national flag as it represents the sovereign state of Vatican City.

The crucifix is meant to be real and part of the artist’s experience.  The crucifix had to show real suffering.  Actually,  the crucifixion of Jesus is also redemption through suffering and death.  I wanted to show it.  This crucifix also portrays Christ as primarily a black man, which I believe is important to show.  Being Black in the world and especially in this country, our suffering is united with Christ’s suffering – but glorious suffering.