Valerie, an 80-year-old artist was one of the first members of u3a Oliva, and she found a unique way to combine her creative passion with a heartfelt dedication to her community. From intricate mosaics to bold murals, her work has left a vibrant mark on the town of Oliva.
Her journey into the world of mosaics began many years ago with a course in Venice. This experience ignited a passion that she later shared with her fellow u3a members through stewardship of the u3a craft group. The meticulous craft of piecing together tiny tiles became more than just a hobby; it became a means of connection and community.
One of Valerie's most notable creations is a mosaic of a 17th-century map of Oliva.
Crafted with the 'tiniest tiles in the world,' this piece was not just an artistic triumph but also a significant gift to the town.
At the request of fellow u3a member Joe Bellenie, Valerie had the honour of presenting the map to the then-mayor of Oliva. The mosaic was, and perhaps still is, proudly displayed in the town hall. The event was covered in the local newspaper, cementing its place in Oliva's history.
Valerie's work also played a part in a different community project when she was asked to create a musical-themed mosaic for a concert by the junior Oliva orchestra at the Gandia Theatre. Unbeknownst to Valerie, the black and white mosaic was actually a prize in the raffle, raising around €700 for the orchestra.
Her artistry isn't limited to mosaics. When a friend volunteered her to paint the nativity scene for El Pelut restaurant—a task she hadn't undertaken since her school days—Valerie rose to the challenge. She painted all the figures, adding her signature touch by creating mosaics for the caskets carried by the three kings.
For a decade, Valerie also created mosaics of the May crosses, which she presented to the community of Oliva each year. Her artistic contributions have been a quiet yet powerful force in the town, enriching its cultural landscape one piece at a time.
Valerie's story is a beautiful reminder that the things we do for passion can often lead to the most meaningful contributions to others.
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