Something extraordinary is coming to Old Town Greenwood.
If you've driven past Happy Haunts recently, you may have heard whispers about a new mural project that is unlike anything currently found in Johnson County. The project, known as Happy Haunts Mural or Guardian of the Gate, is more than a mural—it's an immersive public art experience designed to become a destination for residents, visitors, photographers, artists, and social media creators alike.
Recently featured by the Daily Journal, the mural represents the next phase of Old Town Greenwood Inc's continued investment in placemaking, creativity, and community pride. The article highlighted the artistic vision of J.D. Bills behind the project and the excitement building around what will become one of the most unique pieces of public art in Indiana.
Daily Journal Article Click Here
Not Your Typical Mural
Most murals are painted on a wall.
Guardian of the Gate goes far beyond that.
This installation is being designed with three-dimensional elements that extend beyond the wall itself, creating depth and interaction rarely seen in public art projects.
The design includes:
- Built-in seating integrated directly into the artwork
- Three-dimensional sculptural features that project outward from the wall
- Specialty lighting incorporated into the design for an entirely different experience after dark
- A central focal point specifically designed for photographs, selfies, and social media moments
- Large-scale artwork that transforms the entire experience of the space
The goal is to create a place where people don't simply walk by—they stop, engage, take photos, gather with friends, and create memories.
A New Landmark for Old Town Greenwood
Public art has the power to tell a story about a community.
Guardian of the Gate will help establish another recognizable landmark in Old Town Greenwood while supporting local businesses, increasing foot traffic, and creating a destination experience that encourages visitors to spend more time exploring downtown.
As communities across the country invest in experiential public art, Greenwood has an opportunity to create something that feels authentic, creative, and completely its own.
The design embraces a bold aesthetic that blends fantasy, storytelling, immersive art, and modern mural techniques. Think less "wall decoration" and more "public art installation."
For those who appreciate the work of artists like Kat Von D, immersive art environments, gothic-inspired design, fantasy illustration, alternative art culture, and highly detailed mural work, this project carries that same spirit of artistic storytelling while remaining uniquely Greenwood.
We're Almost There
The community response has been incredible.
Through sponsorships, donations, and community support, Old Town Greenwood Inc. has already raised the vast majority of the funds needed to bring Guardian of the Gate Mural to life.
Today, we are approximately $15,000 away from fully funding the project.
There are several ways local businesses, organizations, and community members can help push this project across the finish line:
Community Hero Sponsorship
One sponsor can step forward as a Community Hero and provide the remaining funding needed to complete the project.
Three Visionary Sponsors
Three businesses or organizations could partner together at $5,000 each to close the funding gap and become part of a landmark project that will serve Greenwood for years to come.
Every contribution helps move the project closer to reality.
Why This Matters
Public art creates more than beautiful spaces.
It creates identity.
It creates conversation.
It creates places people remember.
When completed, Guardian of the Gate will offer residents and visitors a one-of-a-kind art experience featuring sculptural elements, integrated lighting, interactive seating, and a photo-worthy centerpiece unlike anything currently found in Old Town Greenwood.
Years from now, people will remember where they met friends, took family photos, celebrated milestones, and experienced a little bit of magic in Old Town Greenwood.
Want to Help Bring Guardian of the Gate to Life?
To learn more about the project, view renderings, explore sponsorship opportunities, or make a contribution, visit:
https://www.otginc.org/mural-project
Together, we can finish funding one of the most exciting public art projects Greenwood has ever seen and create a destination that will inspire visitors for years to come.
