Francesco Canale does not give up in the face of difficulties. Now an established artist, his life is anything but normal.
FRANCESCO CANALE
My life has been unique for many reasons. First, I was born without arms or legs. But another unusual thing that happened to me was that my biological family left me at the hospital when I was born.
After 40 days in the hospital, a family from Pavia, Italy adopted Francesco.
At the age of 5, he learned to write with his mouth. He then learned to use paintbrushes and at only 11 years old, he was already presenting his work in art galleries.
He believes the crowning moment of his career came just a few months ago when he was commissioned to design the two Vatican Christmas stamps.
FRANCESCO CANALE
I had this idea of taking the shepherd boy from the first painting and bringing him into the second painting as well. Like a script, let's say. In the first painting, the shepherd boy hears the angel-s announcement. And after jumping forward in time, in the second painting, he goes to pay his respects to the baby Jesus. So, it's kind of like the two paintings are linked.
Francesco says he will remember meeting with Pope Francis for the rest of his life.
FRANCESCO CANALE
He was very happy. At the end, he told me something I really appreciated. He said, 'Thank you for your testimony.' It was a nice greeting.
Taking this once-in-a-lifetime experience with him, Francesco is still in front of the canvas, with his brush between his teeth.
CA/DA
TR: OJ
