Making A Difference: Creative Companion

BY CHRISTINA MCGAIRK

Carmel native Zoe Hilger originally geared her business toward senior adults with memory issues, such as her grandmother who suffered from advanced Alzheimer’s. Yet her target demographic expanded as more people who had loved ones with special needs requested her services. Creative Companion, which the 23-year-old started in February of 2023, mixes a bit of art and companionship for seniors, dementia patients, and those with autism and other special needs.

There are two types of sessions, individual and group. The individual sessions are ideal for those who like peaceful creative time. The group sessions are more themed and take place in community settings such as day centers, nursing homes, and churches.

“I like to say I guide, not teach because at the end of the day, I want everyone to be happy while creating, and not feel like there are “rules” to follow,” said Hilger. “While I still work with older adults, around 80% of my business is with the special needs community, and it is where I have been doing the most outreach.” Hilger took some time out to share her love for connecting others through art with Special Needs Living Magazine.

Can you tell us what events led up to where you are now?

I have been an artist my entire life. All I have known is wanting to create. I love to do illustration work for picture books. However, I felt a need to do more. That’s when I realized that my art could be used as a way to engage with other people, and I could share my love of art to help other people grow theirs. Through Creative Companion I have also learned what a powerful tool art is in helping people calm their minds and open up their hearts.

What makes your business or the services you provide so unique?

What I feel is unique about Creative Companion is that I am not here to teach art and I am not an art therapist. I see myself as more of an art friend. While I of course help the people I work with learn new techniques, bring in prompts, and provide them with new materials, I always tell people there is no right way to create. I want them to experiment, and even sometimes, make art that is crazy looking! Many times people associate what I do with art therapy. While I am always clear with people that I am not a therapist, there is a therapeutic element to creating, and I do try and embrace that.

Given your business expertise and the nature of what you do, what advice would you give to budding entrepreneurs?

I am fairly young and so is my business. However, I do still have some advice to give! There is no right time to begin doing what you love, and I feel there is so much more meaning in the work we do when it is driven by passion. When you lead with love and your heart, the most beautiful things come forward.

Is there anything else you would like our audience to know about you or Creative Companion?

The way I work is very flexible. So if there is anything specific people are looking for, I am always so happy to connect and work together to create their vision.