Artist Spotlight: Marcia Aftimus. Bringing Calm, Meaning, and Care Through Art

By Diana Viafara - Communications Coordinator

At Cowichan Hospice Society, every detail of our space is shaped with intention, creating an environment of comfort, dignity, and peace. Thanks to the generosity of local artist Marcia, that experience is now deepened through art.

Marcia recently donated a collection of prints to Cowichan Hospice House, transforming patient rooms into spaces of reflection and quiet beauty. Her work invites patients, families, and visitors to pause even for a moment and find a sense of calm.

Originally from Brazil and now based in the Cowichan region, Marcia’s path as an artist has been shaped by both creative practice and imaginative journeys inspired by nature. After a career in marketing, she returned fully to painting, eventually exhibiting her work internationally in cities like Paris and Miami. Today, her art reflects a deeply contemplative approach, one that encourages viewers to look beyond the surface.

“I always painted to bring calm to people,” she shares. “But I never imagined my work would be in a hospice. Now I feel this is exactly where it belongs.”

Her connection to hospice care began through a close friend who spent time at Hospice House. During her visits, Marcia brought simple art materials, and later, her own work. Her friend described how the presence of art softened the room, offering something gentle to focus on, a moment of rest for the eyes and mind.

That experience became the seed of something larger.

Inspired by her friend’s encouragement, Marcia proposed placing artwork in hospice rooms. Although her friend passed away before seeing the project come to life, her influence remains deeply woven into it. One of the donated pieces, Phoenix, symbolizes transformation and is dedicated in her honour.

At the heart of Marcia’s work is intention. Influenced by Buddhist philosophy, she approaches art as a form of care. Behind each piece, she includes a quiet message:

“May those who look at this painting be free from suffering and find relief from its causes.”

Her paintings also hold subtle, hidden elements—small symbols that invite closer attention. In doing so, they create space for stillness, curiosity, and presence.

For Marcia, this project is just the beginning. She envisions expanding this initiative so that art can reach care spaces around the world, offering moments of peace wherever they are needed most.

“We can all be a gift,” she reflects. “Even something simple kindness, a smile, presence. That is enough.”

Through her generosity, Marcia reminds us that care can take many forms—and that art, too, can be part of how we support one another.