Costantino Nivola's name joins those of other great figures from Nuoro and Barbagia: Ciusa Francesco, Antonio Ballero, Mario Delitala, Sebastiano Satta, Grazia Deledda, Salvatore Satta, Salvatore Cambosu, to name a few.

And it joins them with particular merit: his modest origin and life highlight even more his artistic talents and moral commitment. He existed outside of any provincial or local label because Nivola seized and exalted forms and meanings that challenged the humanity at its core. Those who knew him know that he was a modest and simple man, rather quiet, a little blunt in his laconic and peremptory responses that seemed to come from a deep silence and a thoughtful meditation. But, at the same time, he was capable of sublime bursts and an inspired interiority. Genuine and a dreamer, at times instinctive and impetuous, he was a little wary of adults, but he loved children and always valued the qualities of childhood.