Abby's e-story: The Art of Connection

Abby Elpers is the kind of person who radiates possibility, with a knack for turning dreams into reality. She’s a sunshiny dreamer with can-do audacity. 

If you’ve ever snapped a selfie in front of a vibrant mural in Evansville, you’ve likely witnessed her magic firsthand. Back in 2018, Abby became the creative force behind the city’s first public mural, Self.e Alley, transforming the way Evansville sees itself—literally. Spend even a few minutes with her, and you’ll feel the magnetic pull of inspiration. Abby has a rare gift for seeing potential where others might just see a blank wall or a forgotten alleyway.

It all began when the “e is for everyone” campaign launched, encouraging Evansville residents to connect, contribute, and celebrate their community. Abby took this to heart, and one night, a dream showed her exactly how she could make a difference: a mural alley in the center of downtown.  She had seen murals blossoming in bigger cities and thought, “Why not Evansville?”

 
Abby quote

You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. 🎶

“I think you just have to have a dream in this town to make something happen.”
 
 

 

Learn more about Abby.

Of course, bringing her dream to life wasn’t as simple as picking up a paintbrush. Abby had to jump through plenty of hoops. First, she needed an artist—enter Michael Smith from Orange Moon Art Studio. Next, she had to pitch her idea to the former mayor, Lloyd Winnecke. Since the alley at Innovation Pointe was city-owned property, painting it required approval, but luckily, Winnecke was all in. Then came the formalities: submitting designs to the Department of Metropolitan Development and getting the green light from the Public Arts Commission. Once everything was cleared, it was time to bring her vision to life.

In November 2018, the “Greetings from Evansville” mural splashed across Innovation Pointe, instantly becoming a backdrop for everything from graduation photos to gender reveals, fashion shoots, and even a proposal or two. That first mural sparked something big. Now, Self.e Alley has expanded to four murals, transforming Main Street into a must-see destination for locals and visitors alike. Abby’s vision continues to paint the town with inspiration, one mural at a time.
  

Michael & Abby
Self.e alley concept
Before & After
Self.e Alley users

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