Since early morning, I had been nervous because I had to give a presentation. My teacher told me that over thirty people were curious about my demonstration even though the maximum capacity was twenty. That gave me butterflies in my stomach. I planned to demonstrate sumi-e , and even the audience have try it with me, so I brought the supplies from Japan.

Since my demo was scheduled in the evening, I had plenty of time to see other artists' presentations. I decided to attend Francesca (My teacher's daughter)'s because I thought she would speak in English. However, unfortunately, she spoke entirely in Italian, and I had no idea what she was saying. I was so disappointed at it.

When I met Marlene, I complained about my experience. I told her that, since this was supposed to be an international event, they should prepare some interpreters for each presentation. Marlene told what I said to the show's organizers, and I guess they asked her if she could help as an volunteer interpreter. Since then, she had been very busy, and I felt really bad for her. However, when I attended my teacher, Patrizia's presentation, Marlene was absolutely incredible! She translated what Patrizia said into French first, then English. Since I've been helping one of my American friends' online conversational school as his interpreter to his Japanese students for over ten years, I've known it's a really tough job. Watching Marlene switch effortlessly between three languages was truly impressive. I couldn’t help but wonder how her brain managed to process so many languages so quickly.

Marlene interpreted my presentation as well. Unfortunately, I focused on two of my demos so much that I completely forgot taking any photos. Since I spoke too first, she sometimes couldn't catch up with me, ( I forgot she had to speak two different languages) and she had to say, "Wait!" to stop me. Except that, my audience really enjoyed experiencing a bit of Japanese culture. They told me that they would attend my other presentation too, and I was glad to hear that.

Before my demo, I had the chance to meet lots of artists and chitchatted with them. One of them was Yuriko, a half-Japanese, half-Italian artist from Rome. She greeted me in Japanese and we had a conversation mixing in Japanese and English. She told me that her mom is Japanese. She complained about how difficult Japanese was for her, and I thought it was funny because for me Italian is incredibly difficult. She also mentioned how much Italians love Japanese culture. I believe that's true because I saw some Japanese-inspired art pieces were displayed.

I talked to two Koran artists and made friends with them. One of them spoke a little bit Japanese too.

Another artist I met told me that she was from Rome and usually paints on campus. Her portrait paintings were stunning. She was one of the artists who expressed a deep appreciation for Japanese art. . At the end of this exhibition, she donated one of her oil paintings, which was displayed next to her in the picture to this museum.

One artist from United Arab Emirates was also very interested in Japanese art. She asked me if she could video tape my art pieces while I was explaining each of them. I guess she has shared the video on her social media.

She also explained about her piece. She painted T. E. Lawrence, who is considered a hero in her region on the vase. Listening to her story was fascinating.

Let me introduce my dear Italian friends at the end of this entry.

Maria Teresa and her niece who loves Japan. This year they visited Japan. Her niece told me she was a huge fan of my art, and it definitely made my day.

Maria Teresa created a magical lump and flying carpet inspired by "Aladdin". When we turned on a switch, both the lump and the carpet moved. How clever it was!!

Roberta, who is also a poet. She decorated her piece with one of her poems.

My dear Susie, who was the first to cry when we reunited here.

Marlene, without her help, I don't think I could have made it through the event.

Marina, who has always loved Japan and Japanese culture.

My closest Italian friend, Mariarosa. We're about the same age. She's an incredible artist even though she's kept saying Yumi is the best.

Lovely Virginia! This time I made Vittorio promise to come to Japan! I can't wait to see them.

Franci, Patrizia's daughter, who is a talented young artist.

Rosie, who is usually calm but occasionally surprises us with jokes that make everyone laugh.

Looking at their photos makes me realize how much I miss them all.

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