Italian Sinologist Sabrina Ardizzoni credits her encounter with Chinese conductor Zheng Xiaoying as a pivotal influence on her academic focus and her broader understanding of cultural exchange between East and West. Born in 1929, Zheng holds the distinction of being China’s first female conductor of opera and symphonic music, and has built a distinguished career centered on bridging artistic and cultural divides.

Ardizzoni first met Zheng during her research in southern China’s Hakka regions, a meeting she describes as unforgettable and deeply inspiring. Raised in Verona, Ardizzoni had cultivated an early interest in Chinese culture, drawn by parallels she observed between European and Chinese classical narratives. Her academic path led her to study Chinese language, philosophy, and culture, eventually joining Xiamen University in 2017 to spearhead research on Hakka heritage in Fujian, Jiangxi, and Guangdong provinces. This research deepened her appreciation for the cultural significance of traditional Hakka tulou — large circular communal dwellings embodying principles of coexistence and mutual support.

Zheng’s artistic mission extends beyond musical performance to social and cultural engagement. Rather than presenting Western opera as an imported art form, Zheng has worked to reinterpret it in ways resonant with Chinese audiences, viewing music as a universal language capable of transcending cultural boundaries. Ardizzoni, who authored Zheng’s entry in an international biographical archive celebrating pioneering women, describes Zheng as embodying vitality, courage, and an enduring curiosity.

Building on these shared values, Ardizzoni developed a children’s literature project featuring Pimpa, an iconic Italian children’s character created by illustrator Francesco Tullio Altan. Pimpa, a white-spotted dog known across Italy and internationally, embarks on a fictional journey to China in the new book "Pimpa Flies to China." The story features encounters with Chinese cultural symbols such as dragons, the Great Wall, pandas, and the Chinese zodiac, while also highlighting Hakka cultural landmarks like the tulou. Central to the narrative is a concert conducted by Zheng, depicted as a warm and playful figure who connects Italian and Chinese cultural traditions.

The collaboration aims to foster cultural understanding among young readers, presenting China through a whimsical and accessible lens. Zheng emphasizes that the book goes beyond typical children’s literature by serving as a bridge for mutual understanding and friendship between children separated by geography. A Chinese-language edition is planned for future release.

For Ardizzoni, the collaboration with Zheng and the creation of the Pimpa story represent a continuation of her lifelong commitment to fostering cross-cultural dialogues rooted in creativity and empathy. She sees Italy and China as linked by shared values of art, education, and human connection, each culture offering distinct yet complementary perspectives.

Reflecting on Zheng’s influence, Ardizzoni notes that her encounter transformed how she conceptualizes cultural boundaries. “Knowing her taught me that life should never be restrained by hesitation,” Ardizzoni said. “We ought to live fully, with vitality, courage and an open heart.”