A New Exhibit Celebrates Women in Wine
A commemorative project called INSPIRE: A Celebration of Women in Wine, has been created by Mario Chiodo, renowned artist, and John Dunbar, Yountville Mayor. Chiodo is known for his monuments and sculptures on social justice themes, honoring individuals who have weathered adversity and succeeded while inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. He was inspired to create this monument to celebrate women’s contributions and achievements to the wine industry.
“I am delighted to be a part of creating this tribute,” stated enologist, vintner and industry icon Zelma Long. “I’m equally honored by the recognition of women’s achievements in this industry.”
In California and other major wine regions, early farming and wine production was traditionally dominated by men, with the exception of a handful of pioneering women farmers, winery owners and winemakers who were credited with breaking down this gender barrier. Today, inspired by these early role models, women have become leaders in agriculture, business and marketing, winemaking and education.
Chiodo and Dunbar are hoping to expand the monument throughout several locations in the Napa and Sonoma wine regions and have formed an Advisory Board to oversee the effort. During a project launch on April 7th at the Chiodo Studio in Napa, CA, it was announced that the initial sculpture would live at Ceja Vineyards in honor of the inspiring story of winery President Amelia Morán Ceja, the first Mexican American woman ever to be elected president of a winery.