At 89, Forestview resident Alya Da Silva has discovered a true passion for art. Her paintings fill her days with colour and meaning, and her story reminds us it’s never too late to begin something new.
Originally from Brazil, Alya moved to Canada in 1984 with her husband Bira and their young children. Their lives were devoted to their church, missionary work, and charitable projects that took them through the Amazon, into the United States, and eventually to Canada.
Despite all she has given to her community, Alya describes herself humbly as “not really a professional artist.” In fact, her artistic journey didn’t begin until she was 70, when she was active in her church community while her husband served as pastor.
It was during her time in Cambridge that Alya began attending weekly painting sessions at a local seniors’ centre. Encouragement and constructive feedback from an instructor helped her develop her technique and inspired her to keep going.
Since moving to Forestview in 2018, Alya has continued to create. Two of her most meaningful pieces include a ceramic cup and saucer crafted in memory of her husband, and a plate painted with Birds of Paradise in honour of her granddaughter.
Alya’s journey with art is a beautiful example of passion, perseverance, and the many colourful paths life can take.
