A rendezvous with Carla

What can be said about Carla Bruni that hasn't already been put to paper? The Italian-born epitome of elegance is a woman of many facets - international supermodel, acclaimed singer, wife of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy and, recently, respected philanthropist. During our talk in her recording studio, I encounter several members of Carla's family: her five-year-old daughter Giulia (when she enters the room, her mother rushes toward her, speaking in Italian: "Chichina, amore della mamma, bella, vieni qui! Vieni qui subito!"), her beloved little dog and, of course, the ex-president. In this exclusive interview, she candidly reveals her thoughts on the power of art and education, her insights into the fashion world and some unrevealed details about her upcoming album

Thank you for welcoming China Daily Lifestyle Premium. First, I'd like to discuss the Fondation Carla Bruni Sarkozy, which you created a few years ago.

The idea came from a desire to help others. My husband was the French president at the time and I discovered many issues that I didn't know many people had. So I tried to help in my own way with a foundation that would focus on culture and education. We did quite a lot of work in those five or six years - and a little less now, because it's not easy to raise funds. It's a full-time job.