Every year, thousands of creative minds flock to Bloomington in search of the vast arts and culture scene. No matter where you look, a piece of art is sure to be just around the corner. From graffiti to murals to famous sculptures, it’s no secret that the city is renowned for its artistic prowess.

But behind every creation, there’s a person who has dedicated themselves to the work. Though some may only stop in Bloomington temporarily, others have settled down permanently, like David Ebbinghouse, a 72-year-old resident who has devoted his life to using his artistic genius for good.

“If I were known for minimal painting and I had to paint the same black painting over and over and over again for 50 years, that would be intolerable to me,” Ebbinhouse said. “I want to have the freedom to do whatever I want.”

The freedom that he longed for took him out onto the streets, where sides of buildings and pavement became his new canvas, and graffiti, his art of choice.

Rather than use his real name, though, Ebbinghouse sought out an alias that he could use to identify his art. He wanted something different, a name that still represented himself, his values, and his work, while also providing an alter-ego. Thus, ‘Tom Cat Spray’ was born.

“To me, that was like one work of art, to make this Tom Cat Spray guy and then set him loose,” Ebbinghouse said.

Once the public began to find out about Ebbinghouse and his graffiti, he knew it was time to pivot to something different. His wife also played a big factor in convincing him to quit graffiti, often worrying about him getting arrested and staying out late at night.

So Ebbinghouse decided to explore other works of art. Whether it was jewelry design, sculpting, painting, and more, Ebbinghouse tapped into his spirituality for inspiration.

One of his biggest artistic endeavors was a line of clothing that he called “Trashionary Fashion.” Instead of using normal clothing materials for his creations, Ebbinghouse made fashion out of recycled materials that he often found in trash bins and on the side of the street. This idea became so popular in Bloomington that he even hosted his own runway show using only clothes made from recycled materials.

Though Ebbinghouse could’ve chased more lucrative commercial ventures, he said he wanted to remain true to himself and ensure the integrity of his art.

All Ebbinghouse has even known in his life is art. He graduated from IU with an art degree in 1971 and has called Bloomington home ever since. While he has spent several months living in other countries like India and consuming their culture, he said Bloomington always draws him back.

The ability to create what he wants, whenever he wants, is ultimately all Ebbinghouse has ever wanted as an artist. And despite his age, he said his creative juices are now stronger than ever.