We had the good fortune of connecting with Cynthia Hagedorn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cynthia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I operated an event company, “Square Peg Events, LLC” for 15 years and sunset it in the Fall of 2023. Many aspects of that company focused on community, but I found my heart and passion directing me to more in-depth experiences benefiting people in health and life circumstances.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
While making my own art is a deeply personal journey, over the years I have discovered where my heart truly lies—bridging the community through the vehicle of art. My nonprofit, Community on Canvas, is built on three guiding principles that embody this mission.

The first principle, Leadership on Canvas – ArtPrize, is where I collaborate with selected community leaders to paint canvases that are later displayed during ArtPrize, fostering community, inspiration, and recognition. Care on Canvas focuses on painting side by side with kids and adults who are navigating life and health challenges, using art as a form of expression and healing. Finally, our pARTies create inclusive spaces for families to come together at our imagination stations, where people of all ages can engage in creative activities and connect with one another through art.

What sets me apart is this unique blend of using art not only for personal expression but as a way to foster community, support individuals in difficult times, and build connections that last. It hasn’t always been easy, but overcoming challenges has taught me resilience and the importance of staying true to my mission. I want the world to know that my story, and the story of Community on Canvas, is about more than just making art—it’s about making an impact.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d start by showing them everything I love about Ada Village. We’d visit the Ada History Center to dive into the rich local heritage, then stop by the beautiful Amy Van Andel Library, which is a community gem. Of course, we’d enjoy the cute coffee shops, amazing dining options, and explore the boutique shops that make Ada so charming. There’s just so much to love about Ada!

But truly, my home studio, fondly referred to as ‘The Property,’ would be the heart of the visit. It’s my humble and enchanted favorite place—a magical, private retreat nestled in the countryside. This is where I bring both kids and adults to paint, and it’s an inspiring, peaceful escape. With free-range chickens I affectionately call my colleagues wandering around, it’s a place where creativity thrives and everyone feels at home. I’d love to spend time here with my friend, painting, relaxing, and embracing the beauty of the countryside

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a special shoutout to Shelley Irwin, Host and Producer at WGVU, and Kent Riddle, CEO of Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital. Shelley has been a dedicated supporter for over 15 years, working with me in various roles and deeply understanding my work and vision. Kent has provided me with an incredible platform, along with others, to share my work and reach those in need through the power of art, with Mary Free Bed being a significant part of that journey. Their combined support has been instrumental in helping me expand my reach and make a meaningful impact.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551473106850

Image Credits
Taken by parent or my phone

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