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Malta

90-year-old resident at St Vincent de Paul brightens ward with artistic cardboard models

Every new year brings hope and prosperity, and for Karmenu Cilia, a 90-year-old resident at St Vincent de Paul, it's no different. The former baker from Qormi, finds purpose in crafting cardboard art pieces to brighten the atmosphere at the residence


  • Jan 05 2025
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Every new year brings hope and prosperity, and for Karmenu Cilia, a 90-year-old resident at St Vincent de Paul, it's no different. The former baker from Qormi, finds purpose in crafting cardboard art pieces to brighten the atmosphere at the residence and hopes to leave an impact in the ward even when he's not around anymore.

Walking through the ward corridors and halls feels like walking through an art gallery with all the hand-made decorations and models, all colourful and bright, almost a reflection of Karmenu's character. From traditional Maltese balcony models to boats, a carousel, and, for this season, a series of meticulously shaped golden-coloured pavilions-11 to be precise-hanging from the ceiling of the main corridor as part of the ward's Christmas decorations.

One would think that Karmenu had been doing this craftsmanship all his life, as he indeed has, but he started using cardboard only recently. 'I started this when I was moved to this ward because cardboard was the closest material to wood. I used to create wooden models when I was still at home. I was always working on something; I don't know how to stay still', tells Karmenu from his armchair besides his bed which he converts into a worktop every single morning. Every surface in his humble corner holds cardboard, finished models, glue, paints and other things related to his hobby.

The nonagenerian's typical day starts at around 4am where he wakes up, says the rosary, showers then prepare his morning coffee. After his breakfast, he normally joins the carers and helps them with feeding the other fellow residents. Once ready, he rushes to his room and starts his day of work, carefully manipulating cardboard pieces with skill, precision and dedication. ''I mumble to myself a lot, especially when I'm working, wondering if what I'm doing is good or if I should do it differently. Sometimes I am so concentrated that I do not hear people coming in, and suddenly I find them next to me and I get scared', he says jokingly.

Every year is a blessing for the father of 3 sons, A long life also brings the sorrow of losing more loved ones. The number 66 carries a deep sadness for Karmenu. 'My father died at 66, I had a heart attack when I was 66, and I lost my eldest child of 66; 26 days after my wife, Mary, passed away'. Karmenu married his childhood sweetheart, whom now almost 3 years after her demise, he is still full of love for her. 'I don't keep anything at heart, just my wife', he says with his sparkling yet tearful eyes.

Karmenu humbly says that he holds no secrets to living a long life and never expected to live this far. Nevertheless, his creativity thrives as he shapes one cardboard box after another. He gets satisfaction from seeing his masterfully crafted models enhance the atmosphere of the residence. That is what keeps him motivated, so much so that he has already started working on a large crib for next year's Christmas.

As we step into the new year, may we all find the spark that motivates and inspires us, just as Karmenu does by embracing his new passion and looks forward to the future with purpose.

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