Meet Birmingham Muralist Emma Gilbert
Emma Gilbert has taken the mural scene by storm, and once you see her whimsical, dreamy masterpieces, you’ll understand why. Meet this inspiring FACE of Birmingham! Image: Emma Gilbert
In high school, a teacher told Emma Gilbert she’d never make it as a professional artist. After graduation, Emma converted a bus into a tiny home and traveled the country, painting as she went. With dozens of commissioned murals under her belt at public spaces and major corporations from New York to Los Angeles – all before she’s even turned 25 – it’s safe to say she’s proven that teacher wrong. She’s also the owner of EG Art Studios, a collective of women muralists on a mission to create impactful art around the world. Meet Emma Gilbert!
First, tell us about yourself.
I was born and raised in Alabaster, so this city is deeply woven into who I am. Its creativity, resilience, and charm constantly inspire my work.
Art has always been a huge part of my life. I can’t remember a time when I wasn’t drawing, painting, or creating something with my hands. Even as a kid, I was that child covered in marker stains and glitter, making cards for everyone I knew. Over time, that passion turned into something more — something I knew I wanted to build a life around.
My family has always been my biggest support system. Whether encouraging me to pursue art in school or helping me hang my very first gallery show, they’ve been by my side through it all. I’m incredibly grateful for them, and honestly, I think my creativity comes from generations of imaginative women in my family.
Speaking of, check out our FACES feature of Emma’s mom, Americana singer/songwriter Rebekah Gilbert!
How did you find your way to mural design?
I began painting murals shortly after graduating from high school. My partner and I converted a bus into a mobile home and set out to travel across the country. During this two-year journey, I had the opportunity to create murals in multiple states, each experience expanding my skills and network. Through consistent outreach and community engagement, I was able to gain recognition and establish a name for myself within the public art scene.
Now that I’m back in my hometown, my mission is to foster meaningful and impactful art throughout Alabama. After witnessing the vibrant mural culture in cities across the U.S., I was struck by how underrepresented the arts are here. That realization has fueled my goal to help grow and nurture a stronger, more visible art culture in Alabama.
Tell us about EG Art Studios, the community of muralists you’ve brought together.
EG Art Studios started as a dream to create more than just a personal art space; it was about building a creative community. Over time, it’s grown into a vibrant collective of incredibly talented muralists and artists who share a passion for transforming spaces through art.
What makes EG Art Studios special is our collaboration and support for one another. We’re not just working side by side; we’re cheering each other on, sharing ideas, and bringing our unique styles together to elevate every project. We collaborate on murals and public art installations, and those are some of my favorite moments — when we bring different perspectives and skills to the same wall and watch it come to life together.
We’re passionate about using art to create beauty, spark joy, and build connections within communities. Whether it’s a large-scale public mural or a small neighborhood project, our heart is always the same: to make art that matters and to do it together.
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
When I’m not working, I love spending time outdoors — whether that’s going on a walk, working in my garden, or just soaking in a quiet sunset. Nature helps me recharge and often sparks new ideas for my art. I also enjoy cooking simple, cozy meals at home, listening to music or a good podcast, and catching up with friends over dinner. And honestly, sometimes the best days are the slow ones with no plans — just rest, reflection, and maybe a good book in hand.
Who or what is inspiring you right now?
Right now, I’m really inspired by the beauty of everyday moments — things like morning light through the window, the changing colors of the season, or a quiet conversation with someone I love. Lately, I’ve also been drawn to the idea of slow living. Being present, creating with intention, and appreciating the process, not just the outcome. Artistically, I’m inspired by textures in nature and the layers of emotion that come with growth and change. And spiritually, I’m leaning into trust, believing that even the quiet seasons are deeply meaningful.
What is your best piece of advice?
Don’t wait for everything to be “perfect” before you start. Whether it’s pursuing a dream, starting a business, or creating your first piece of art, just begin. Progress happens in the process, not in perfection. Some of my most meaningful work came from moments when I felt unsure but showed up anyway. Trust your gut, keep showing up, and let the journey refine you.
Aside from faith, family, and friends, what are three things you can’t live without?
My paintbrushes. They’ve been with me through every season of life — messy, joyful, challenging, and inspired. Each one has a little story, and I’m definitely sentimental about them.
Music. There’s always something playing in the background while I paint. Whether it’s instrumental, indie, or a favorite worship playlist, music helps set the mood and keeps the creativity flowing.
Nature walks. Whether it’s a quiet trail or just time in my garden, being in nature clears my mind and fills my creativity well. So many of my color palettes and ideas are inspired by the outdoors.
Lightning Round!
Favorite place to vacation: Utah to snowboard
Your go-to gift to give: Candy
Favorite recent TV show binge: The White Lotus
Book(s) on your bedside table: Building a Non-Anxious Life by Dr. John Delony
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Birmingham women are doing inspiring work. Meet more of them over at our FACES archives!
Katie Leigh Matthews
A Birmingham native, Katie is a lifelong waterfall chaser and is passionate about the outdoors. She also loves connecting with remarkable women in the Birmingham community and bringing their stories to life. Katie has been writing professionally for over six years; you can find more of her work at Moms.com and Islands.com.