For the past three years Vi Ferguson, 91, travels from Arizona to stay with her son, Dennis and his wife Darlene during the summer in Hernando Beach.
Vi is not new to arts and crafts, she has been creating since the age of 12.
“I was at my sister’s house, a polish neighborhood in Chicago- the ladies crochet,’ Vi recalled. “I begged them to teach me how to crochet and that was the first thing I did.”
Throughout her years, Vi has explored knitting, stained glass, ceramic, china painting, jewelry making, as well as quilting. During the summer months in Florida, Vi and her daughter in law Darlene have forged an artistic connection.
“My daughter in law is an artist, she got me into making jewelry and painting,” Vi Ferguson said.
During a recent art exhibit held at the local firehouse she showcased her of paintings and collection of necklaces and earrings.
“We first put out my pictures, one after the other the little mermaids sold,” Vi said. “I did very well.”
Darlene, a retired graphic designer and long time artist, got back into art after 20 years.
“She was the one that got me into china painting, and it was something I always wanted to try,” Darlene said.
After china painting, her husband suggested she try glass painting and from that point on she knew this was what she wanted to do.
Darlene soon began building her business by creating hand painted and kiln fired glass paintings. During the summer visits from her mother-in-law, the house is immersed in creativity.
“It’s wonderful having her here and to help her do what she needs to do to keep her busy and happy,” Darlene said. “She is amazing.”
Vi even at the age of 91, still is very active, she participates in community events, VFW activities and is open to new artistic adventures.
“Right now I can still crochet, knit, use my hands which is a blessing and I am very fortunate that I am in good health that way,” Vi Ferguson said.
Advice from Vi is to “Shut the T.V. off!”
There are many activities available for seniors in the community. Check your local newspaper or community newsletter for activities in your area.
To see Darlene’s art, please visit http://www.3d-foreverfused.com/
