Friday 17 May at 18at the Briviodue bookshop of Aosta, in Piazza Chanoux, the Aosta writer Federico Gregotti Zoja will present her latest novel, for adults, inspired by the painter’s story Eva Gonzales and published by Les Flâneurs editions, for the “Le innominate” series. The meeting will be moderated by the journalist Fabiola Megna.
The book
Some voices are forced to wait centuries to be heard. Eve Gonzales (born in Paris in 1849), painter close to impressionist movement, was an independent and tenacious woman, ahead of her time. In May 1883, Eva is watching over the cradle of her son Jean. She has just given him life and is still very affected by the birth, when she learns the news of the death of her mentor, Édouard Manet.
He then decides to dedicate himself to writing a memoir in epistolary form, moved by the desire that her son know her story, her truth. In the diary, the painter retraces the main stages of his artistic and human journey, dwelling at length on her relationship with Manet (of whom she was “the one and only pupil”), destined to transform into an increasingly conflictual and tormented relationship. A historical novel based on careful documentary researchin which the figure of Eva Gonzalès, often the object of gossip for her alleged sentimental affairs rather than of study for her pictorial activity (as too often has happened and happens to female artists), finally finds the chance to tell your side of the story.
The author
Federico Gregotti – born in Aosta in 1971 – is the Nom de plume that Federico Zoja chose to bring in memory of his aunt Daniela. He teaches literature in high schools. He has published inspired works of fiction
to figures from the art world such as Properzia de’ Rossi, Jan Vermeer and Tintoretto. With EL-Einaudi guys you published the illustrated fairy tale The little girl who collected turtles (“Le Letture”, 2020), the novels Friedl and the children of Terezín (“Simply heroes”, 2021) e A master spy (“White Card”, 2023) and the illustrated biography Primo Levi, a voice not to forget (“Great”, 2023).
Entrance is free, but reservations are appreciated, useful for organizational purposes, possible by calling 0165 235946 or by sending a WhatsApp message to the number 346 6286717. Shipping of books with dedication is available throughout Italy with LibridaAsporto. It is possible to request a remote dedication with collection following presentation. The event will be broadcast live on Facebook and on the Library’s YouTube channel.
