This April, we are delighted to highlight the life of Val, a beloved member of our community here at Carnew Nursing Home. Val’s presence is a source of warmth and creativity that truly enhances our shared experiences here. His enduring love and passion for art have significantly impacted our community, with his vibrant spirit and artistic talent enriching the essence of our home. 

Carnew Nursing Home is privileged to have residents like Val, whose life experiences and creative spirit contribute to our vibrant community.

Join us as we delve into the unique aspects of Val’s life, celebrating the love, wisdom, and artistic inspiration he brings to us all.

Val’s Favourite Life Memories:

Val’s favourite memories revolve around the cherished moments spent with his beloved late wife, Anne, and their three children—a testament to the enduring love that has shaped his life.

The memories that hold a special place in Val’s heart are painted with the colours of family joy and togetherness. They encapsulate the essence of shared laughter around the dinner table, the warmth of holidays spent exploring Ireland’s landscapes, and the quiet moments of connection that define a lifetime.

What makes these memories so special is the deep bond forged within the walls of their home—a sanctuary filled with love and understanding. They are memories adorned with the hues of resilience and devotion, embodying the very essence of family unity and unwavering support.

Through the lens of these treasured memories, Val celebrates the beauty of a life enriched by the love of his wife and the joy of parenthood. It is a legacy that continues to inspire him.

How Val’s Architectural Background Influenced His Approach to Painting:

An alumnus of Art and Architecture at UCD, Val’s architectural experience has equipped him with a keen eye for detail and spatial relationships, which he applies to capturing the essence of Irish landscapes and urban scenes in his artwork. He encorporates elements of urban design, such as buildings and streetscapes, into his paintings, reflecting his deep understanding of structure and composition.

Additionally, Val’s appreciation for colour, form, and texture, honed through architecture, is evident in his vibrant water-coloured depictions of Irish landscapes. He approaches painting with a methodical mindset, planning compositions and considering scale and proportion similar to designing a building.

Val’s Favourite Thing to Do in Carnew Nursing Home:

Val not only finds solace in the embrace of art and conversation but also enjoys sharing his passion for watercolour painting with fellow residents, some whom have encouraged Val to lead an art class for them.   

Val’s Hobbies Aside From Painting:

Outside of painting, Val always enjoyed a game of Boules. He would play frequently in Bray Bowling Club and loved that Boules allowed him to stay active whilst socialising with friends.

Val’s Words of Wisdom/Advice:

Val tells me that throughout his life he’s learned a great deal, particularly in observing and assisting others. One important lesson he’s gleaned is the value of looking out for one another and extending kindness to those in need. He tells me that it’s remarkable how many people cross our paths requiring a helping hand.

Val’s advice to others is to always be attentive to those around you. He says that you learn a great deal by sitting quietly at the back of the room and observing. In recent years, Val’s begun to understand that by just being present and offering a listening ear you can provide immense comfort to those who need it most.