I created this piece during a sculpture workshop in Carrara, Italy, renowned for its magnificent marble sculptures from the Carrara mountains. When asked what gender and age I wanted to depict for my first sculpture, I immediately chose to study the facial form and structure of an older woman.
In today's society, women are often discouraged from aging naturally. The lines and marks on their faces are deemed unacceptable, which can severely impact their self-esteem. As a result, plastic surgery has become a common solution, with the absence of wrinkles often seen as a compliment for older women. While there's nothing inherently wrong with plastic surgery, it has affected how so many women perceive themselves.
I find great beauty in naturally aging wrinkles. To me, they symbolize time, experience, and wisdom. Every line from a smile represents memories filled with love and light, like trophies of a life well-lived. They are a testament to a life authentically embraced.
