Community Mural Project at Pere Marquette Park Offers Creative Experience for Local Kids

July 24, 2025

A colorful new public art project is set to begin at Pere Marquette Park, bringing a joyful mural to the bathhouse near the playground—and a unique opportunity for local children to leave their creative mark on the lakeshore. 

Led by Michigan nonprofit [Community on Canvas], the Care on Canvas: Amy Lindenbaum Lakeshore Edition will pair young artists one-on-one with professional muralist and founder Cynthia Hagedorn for personal painting sessions focused on creativity, healing, and self-expression. The project was approved through the city’s [Public Art Policy] and will unfold over the next few weeks as weather and scheduling allow. 

Designed especially for children facing life or health challenges, this special edition of Care on Canvas is offered at no cost thanks to the support of the Lindenbaum family, who launched the Lakeshore Edition in tribute to Amy Lindenbaum—an educator and mother who believed deeply in the power of art to uplift young people. 

Each participating child will contribute to the community mural at Pere Marquette and also create their own canvas to be celebrated in a public art exhibit in spring 2026. Among those excited to pick up a paintbrush is 4-year-old Dahlia (pictured below), whose enthusiasm has helped lead the charge for this special experience. 

Know a child who could benefit?
Community on Canvas is currently accepting referrals for children under 18 who live in the Muskegon or Lakeshore area and are navigating health or life challenges. No art experience is needed, and every child paints alongside a trained artist in a safe and encouraging environment. To learn more or reserve one of the remaining spots, email Cynthia@CommunityOnCanvas.org. 

📍 Location: Bathhouse near the Pere Marquette playground
🎨 Project Begins:July and August 2025, weather-dependent
🌈 Contact: Cynthia Hagedorn, Founder & CEO – 616-510-3599
📣 Full Press Release and Organization Info: [Community on Canvas]

Let’s give these young artists a warm Muskegon welcome as they turn a blank wall into a message of hope, color, and care.