Eva Brook Donly facts for kids

Eva Brook Donly (born April 30, 1867 – died 1941) was a talented Canadian artist. She lived most of her life in Ontario, Canada. Eva was known for her beautiful paintings. She painted many different subjects, including portraits of people and lovely landscapes.

Early Life and Education

Eva Brook Donly was born in Simcoe, Ontario. This town is located in Canada. From a young age, Eva showed a strong interest in art. She worked hard to develop her artistic skills.

Learning to Paint

Eva went to Alma Ladies' College. There, she earned a special diploma in fine arts. This showed she was very good at art. After that, she studied at the Ontario School of Art. Today, this school is called the Ontario College of Art and Design. She received a top certificate there.

Teaching Art

From 1887 to 1890, Eva shared her knowledge. She became the head of the art department at Alma College. She taught many students there.

Artistic Journey and Travels

Eva loved to learn and explore. She continued her art studies in different places.

Studying in New York

After teaching, Eva traveled to New York City. She studied at the Institute of Artist-Artisans. This helped her learn even more about art.

Life in Mexico

Later, Eva moved to Mexico City. She opened a book shop there. In Mexico, she met Augustine Donly. They married in Canada in 1896. The couple returned to Mexico City in 1905.

Painting Mexican Scenes

In Mexico City, Eva studied at the San Carlos Academy. This is a famous art school. After her studies, she started painting again. She created many paintings of Mexico. She also painted scenes from Bermuda and Canada. Her art captured the beauty of these places.

Her Legacy

Eva Brook Donly passed away in Simcoe in 1941. She left a special gift to her community.

The Eva Brook Donly Museum

In her will, Eva left her old home to Norfolk County. She wanted it to be used as a museum. Today, it is known as the Eva Brook Donly Museum. It helps people learn about local history and art.

Her Art in Collections

Many of Eva's artworks are kept in the museum. Her paintings are also part of the National Gallery of Canada. This is a very important art collection. One of her paintings is even owned by the United States government. It shows a U-boat (a type of submarine). This painting was used to help sell Victory bonds during a war.

Alma College Art Students, Eva Brook Donly, left, Marilla Adams, and Cornelia Saleno at work in the college's art studio by Frederic Marlett Bell-Smith, c. 1883