A One-Of-A-Kind Valentine
February 20th, 2008 by Janie KimberTo some, Valentines Day is a day of romance. To others, it is a day of just the ordinary. The Seattle Area Delta Gamma Alumnae Group and members of the Delta Gamma sorority at the University of Washington made Valentines Day extraordinary for the children at Louis Braille School by presenting them with valentines that are truly a work of art.
As I write this article, I have before me one of the large valentines that were made with love and care. I feel a variety of textures. I happen to love things with texture. I especially love the fluted borders on the edges of the large sheet of heavy paper on which the valentine was made.
The valentine is filled with an enticing variety of textures that encourages me to explore further. I feel hearts on the card made of items such as pasta, sandpaper, and embossed paper. Rice is also used for texture, and even faux fur. Sound is included with a string of jingle bells that trims one side of the card.
Because at one time I could see color, I keep asking a co-worker, “What color is this?” I love the red traditionally used for valentines and the shades of blue.
The DGs didn’t miss a thing. What a unique treat they prepared for those whose eyes do not see.
The technique used for these valentines could be adapted to all sorts of occasions. What a difference a card made with such loving care could make for someone! The card will keep on living long after the event has passed.
For more about Delta Gamma and its philanthropic focus on sight conservation and aid to the blind, visit www.seattledg.com
Kara Dyko, president of the Seattle Area Delta Gamma Alumnae Group, paid an October visit to the Louis Braille School to present three unique tactile pictures. Created especially for the Louis Braille School by the alumnae group, the pictures are made from items that can be readily found around the house and at craft stores. The items are arranged on 20 x 30 inch foam board to form lovely tactile creations. Each picture contains a few words of raised braille.