Kelby Love
Kelby Love (November 7, 1959 - October 13, 2018) became one of Elkhart, Indiana's most accomplished artists, celebrated for his community murals and wildlife paintings. Even if you haven’t heard the name Kelby Love, you’re almost certain to have seen his work. If you drove down South Main Street before January of 2024, you're sure to have seen one of the biggest and most notable murals, the peace mural. He painted this mural in 1996 in response to a period of serious gun violence involving teens in Elkhart, but unfortunately, it was torn down in early 2024 due to safety concerns. The mural, along with Kobe’s other work, not only brought beauty to Elkhart but also encouraged the community to confront issues and take action.
Born and raised in Elkhart, love developed and interest in art at a young age. He showed early talent for drawing and painting, particularly realistic portrayals of animals. This passion continued as he grew older. So much so that he decided to pursue a formal art education, where he first studied at Columbus College of Art and Design. He later continued his studies at the prestigious Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York. This education allowed him to move comfortably between different art forms, including painting, sculpture, and, of course, murals.
Although Love spent time living and working outside of Indiana, he maintained a strong connection to his hometown. He eventually returned to Elkhart, where he dedicated much of his career to his community. Alongside his wildlife paintings and sculptures, Love became especially known for murals that addressed social issues. His work stood out not only for its unique style but also for what the art represented.
Kelby’s most famous mural was the Peace Mural, painted in 1996 on a building at the corner of South Main Street and Prairie Avenue in downtown Elkhart. Love painted the mural in response to a period of intense gun violence that had deeply affected the city. The mural depicted powerful imagery emphasizing peace, education, faith, and a unified community, and it was developed with input from the community, especially its young people. Over time, the Peace Mural became a landmark, remaining untouched by vandalism for almost 30 years.
In addition to the Peace Mural, Love continued to create other artworks but was also widely known as a mentor to Elkhart's young people. Those who knew him described Love as a quiet but deeply committed artist who believed that by creating positive images, he could create a positive change in his community.
Kelby Love passed away in October of 2018 at the age of 58. Although some of his works, including the Peace Mural, were lost to building demolition, the legacy he left continues to live on. The community had worked to preserve his legacy through preserving every piece of art they could, documenting what they couldn’t preserve, and potentially recreating some of his most memorable work. Today, Kelby Love is remembered not only as a talented artist but as a man who used art to create a better community for the people.
What will YOU do?
Do not just look at what others have done. They were second-graders at one time, teenagers. They were regular people who decided to be courageous. We all have that choice.
Honoring Our Heritage
Celebrating African American excellence in Elkhart, IN, is more than a tribute; it's a movement that empowers local youth by connecting them with the rich history and achievements of their community. By highlighting the successes of African American leaders, we aim to inspire the next generation to dream big and achieve greatness.
Located in the historic Roosevelt School Building, our initiative serves as a beacon of hope and a source of pride for the Elkhart community. Through educational programs and community events, we foster a deeper understanding of the significant contributions made by African Americans, encouraging young people to pursue their aspirations.
Join Us in Celebrating Heroes
Visit and get involved
The House of Heroes invites students, families, and community members to step inside, learn, and reflect on the people who helped shape today’s Elkhart. Educators, churches, and organizations are encouraged to schedule group visits, use the space for storytelling and discussion, and connect these histories to the challenges and opportunities of the present.​
Visitors are also invited to nominate future honorees whose lives reflect the same spirit of service, courage, and community building seen in the House of Heroes. In this way, the room remains a growing, living tribute to the Black leaders who keep moving Elkhart forward.
