Remarkable Residents: Sonny Brisebois-Day from The Highlands

Each of our residents is remarkable in one way or another. Their stories, perspectives, and insights make caring for them especially rewarding and inspiring.

Meet Sonny Brisebois-Day –– Hometown Artist

Sonny is a self-taught artist, born and raised in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. His love for art began at home, where he was surrounded by a creative family. His father filled their home with music, playing the piano during weekly family sing-alongs, while his mother had a passion for still-life art, which she passed on to Sonny. His grandfather, whom Sonny fondly calls his "favorite grandfather," sang opera in New York City.

Sonny's passion for painting blossomed during his time at Fitchburg High School. Sonny’s art teacher, Mr. Lewis, urged him to "paint what you see, not what it could be." That advice and other bits of encouragement Sonny received from his teachers, classmates, and family inspired him to continue developing his gift and honing his craft.

Art has remained an important part of Sonny's life, alongside his love of theater and music. And Fitchburg has always been Sonny's muse, inspiring many of the paintings that bring his memories to life on canvas.

Through his work, Sonny captures the beauty of nature and the special connections he has with places in his hometown. One of his greatest inspirations is the beloved Coggshall Park, where he and his seven siblings often played together, creating cherished memories.

Today, Sonny's artwork is displayed proudly at The Highlands, in his room and around the facility for everyone to enjoy. Visitors often discuss and compliment his work, which Sonny said fills his heart with “great joy.”

While Sonny often shares his artwork with friends and family, he hopes that one day he can share his work with the entire Fitchburg community at the Fitchburg Art Museum. To him, his paintings are more than just beautiful, eye-catching images. Rather, they are a reflection of his memories, his hometown heritage, and his heart.