103-Year-Old Artist's Forgotten Teenage Sketches Go Viral

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A Legacy of Art and Family

Alicia Martinez has always cherished the close-knit nature of her family, which spans across the United States. Her great-aunt Vi, Violet LaVigna Breeckner, is a central figure in their lives, especially after celebrating her 103rd birthday with four generations of family members. This special occasion brought together relatives from different states, including Florida, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Nebraska, and Washington, highlighting the deep connections that bind them.

Vi was born in the Bronx, New York, and later moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Her journey through life has been marked by creativity and resilience. As a teenager, she began drawing fashion sketches that would eventually capture the attention of millions on TikTok. These designs, created when she was just 13 years old, have become a source of pride and inspiration for her family.

Alicia shared how the family discovered these sketches during a recent gathering. "I had never seen them before," she said. "My mom pulled out a portfolio and said, 'Look at these,' and I was completely in awe." The sketches, dating back to 1935, showcase Vi's extraordinary talent and imagination. Alicia was so moved by the discovery that she decided to share the collection with the world through a video on TikTok.

The response was overwhelming. Nearly half a million views later, Vi is amazed by the global interest in her work. "I can't believe it! Can you imagine that? It makes me feel good, oh my God!" she exclaimed. Her daughters, Marylinda and Regina, are also thrilled and encourage her to bring her designs to life.

Vi's artistic journey began early in her life. She started drawing fashion designs in high school, where she won many awards. Her parents recognized her talent and sent her to the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn at the age of 15 or 16. Although the school focused on visual arts rather than fashion design, Vi excelled in sculpture and painting. However, she always had a passion for designing clothes.

Fashion was a family business, with Vi's father and brother running a cashmere business that gained international recognition. Their company was featured in magazines like Vogue and The Times, and the LaVigna name became synonymous with high-quality cashmere coats and suits. Vi often watched her father create these beautiful garments, which inspired her own designs.

Despite her talents, Vi faced challenges in pursuing a career in fashion. Her family expected her to marry and start a family, so she put her designs aside. However, the sketches remained in her possession, preserved as a personal treasure. "I always had my things on display at that time. It was good. It was a big thing. But you know, I put them away, and that was it," she recalled.

Now, nearly a century later, Vi is experiencing a second wave of recognition. The outpouring of love and admiration from people around the world has left her in disbelief. "The girls in the family would love to see these made, but I guess Single Sparkle like them! Thousands of Single Sparkle?! I can’t believe it, I can’t stop smiling."

For Alicia, sharing Vi's story has been a meaningful experience. "The most meaningful part has been watching Aunt Vi’s reaction. Seeing her smile, hearing her laugh, and watching the joy on her face as we tell her how much the world is celebrating her talent — that’s priceless."

Vi remains humble about her achievements, acknowledging that her fingers aren't as nimble as they once were. However, she still finds joy in creating. "I don’t draw much anymore; I could still do it, but I’m a little lazy... I did do a few sketches when I was 100. I would like to start again as I have these in my mind, but my fingers aren’t as good as they used to be."

Alicia is committed to preserving her family's legacy and passing on its values to her children. "Family truly means everything. Even though we’re scattered, whenever we come together it feels like no time has passed at all, as if we’ve been living under the same roof the whole time."

Through Vi's story, the Martinez family continues to celebrate the power of art, family, and connection. Their journey reminds us that even the most unexpected moments can lead to incredible opportunities and lasting legacies.