Caroline Corbetta Remembers Franca Sozzani

Caroline Corbetta recalls her first encounter with Franca Sozzani, the legendary editor of Vogue Italia, in 1998. Corbetta was working at a Milan gallery when Mariuccia Casadio, Vogue Italia's arts editor, offered her a writing opportunity. Over fifteen years, Corbetta contributed articles linking art to other contemporary languages. She describes Sozzani as charismatic, empathetic, and maternal, with a striking gaze. Sozzani had previously directed Lei magazine in the 1980s, featuring photographers like Peter Lindbergh, Paolo Roversi, Herb Ritts, and Steven Meisel. Corbetta's most memorable meeting with Sozzani occurred in the evening, sitting on the floor of her office, reviewing books and catalogs. Sozzani's physical smallness contrasted with her immense personality.