Growing up in Milaca, MN Cynthia fell in love with piano and music and was involved in musical theater and summer theater. From high school onward she made it a point to take in all the live theater and music events, as well as arts festivals, that she could. She even took ballroom dance classes and eventually became an instructor. Cynthia has made it a priority to explore different art forms and expand her appreciation for them. For example, she has observed potters at work and from local artists has learned how the clay from various soils (especially local soils) expresses itself in the final pieces. Artists have also ignited her curiosity about, and appreciation for the role of flowers and plants in art through their fibers, seeds, and colorants. ​

She currently lives on Platte Lake, where working with her alpacas and llamas motivated her to learn about spinning, weaving and felting their luxurious wool. Her “day job” is at Sprout MN, as part of their Food Systems and Community Outreach programs. There, she regularly collaborates with artists and food providers, whether it’s being a part of the Markets and Music on the Mississippi events at Little Falls’ LeBourget Park or working with artist, Brenda Rudolph’s Raising a Farmer activities.

Cynthia delights at seeing the sparks of excitement when people express their creativity. Throughout her life, she’s noticed that the arts (and food!) draw people together regardless of their age, background or interests, so she’s 100% on board for doing all she can do to encourage and support arts activities.