Today is 8 March, International Women's Day, a day not to forget that there is still much to be done. It goes without saying how important it is to be aware of all that women have contributed throughout history, in all times, fields, civilisations and activities, and of what they will always continue to contribute, whatever their circumstances. In the field that touches me most closely, as a woman artist, we are currently experiencing a discovery of those who did not have the opportunity to make their works visible, of those who had to hide their real name and sign under a pseudonym, of those who did not fit in with their time and of those who revealed their own personality.

We live in an age where we can access and share these discoveries, in all areas, and it is wonderful that this is the case. Women of other times, always difficult, who inspire us all and who should also serve as an inspiration to society as a whole. It is essential to know the historical and social context of each era in order to appreciate those who believed in them, men who were committed to this much-needed equality and who must not have found it easy to go against what was considered appropriate. Fortunately, today there are many who work to achieve a society that grows by uniting the best that each person has to offer, in each field, in each culture and in each activity, placing value on what women and their vision can contribute.

Today I would like to pay a simple, but deeply sincere and emotionaltribute to a woman who is for me an inspiration of generosity, hard work and constant dedication. A woman who did not have the opportunity to study, who had to take on tasks and responsibilities that did not correspond to her as a child but which she assumed in an exemplary way, who learned to value losses and to be close to others. A woman who faces life's most difficult moments with a smile on her face and a hand outstretched without prejudice. A woman full of creativity to solve a thousand things on a daily basis, who exudes sensitivity and enjoys everything that exudes beauty... even without knowing anything, as she says. She is a woman of emotion to the surface, of absolute simplicity, of brightness in her eyes and sincere humanity . A woman who has not had it easy and who has managed to maintain the illusion in every step she has taken. Today, for me, is also the international day of that woman whom I admire and thank for everything, who is always there cheering me up: my mother.

The view of the woman artist has another angle and I have to thank all those who, over the centuries, have made it possible for me to give myself freely to the vocation that makes me who I am. Today, 8 March, International Women's Day, is a day to give thanks and to continue giving the best of myself until it is no longer necessary to mark it on the calendar.

In this video I wanted to leave a reflection, in a more direct and personal way. I hope it helps you to discover those women who enrich and advance society, in every corner of the world. There is still a long way to go, but we will do it together, and I send you a big hug!