Bridging Art and Humanity: A Conversation with Daniel Savion Gupta

Daniel Savion Gupta

In the heart of Indianapolis, where art meets activism, a new mural is set to transform the Monon Trail into a canvas of empowerment, hope, and cultural reflection. Premiering in August 2025, the two-part, 26.5-by-10-foot public art installation isn’t just a bold visual statement—it’s a symbol of the profound impact one individual can make when creativity is paired with compassion. That individual is Daniel Savion Gupta.

A Bloomington native, Gupta has become a beacon of humanitarianism in Indiana and beyond. Through his foundation and the visionary International Art Project (IAP), he merges artistic expression with global philanthropy. His latest contribution to Indianapolis—a collaboration with rising star artist Jonatan Espinoza—will mark a milestone not just for the local arts scene, but for the many communities Gupta’s work continues to uplift.

The Empower Her Project: Art as a Voice for the Voiceless

The forthcoming mural, funded by the Indianapolis Art Board, The Ridge Group, and Gupta himself, will also serve as the official launchpad for The Empower Her Project, a movement dedicated to amplifying the voices of women and girls around the world. The bold, expressive mural—painted by Espinoza, a builder, storyteller, and artist with a growing international presence—symbolizes more than just artistic achievement; it stands as a testament to inclusion, resilience, and the power of collaboration.

“This is what IAP and Elysian Art are about,” says Gupta, referencing his fine art collection that showcases underrepresented talent in galleries across the U.S. “We want to give raw, overlooked creatives the platform to be seen—and to show the world what’s possible when passion meets purpose.”

Philanthropy in Motion: From Indiana to the World

Gupta’s dedication to service doesn’t stop with murals and galleries. Over the last two decades, he has personally funded and led a wide range of humanitarian projects across continents. His resume reads like a blueprint for effective giving:

• Annual Christmas Drive: Over 20 years, thousands of families have received gifts and essentials through Gupta’s outreach efforts, benefiting organizations such as The Salvation Army, Riley Children’s Hospital, and women’s shelters.

• Medical Aid: In partnership with Timmy Global Health, he has donated life-saving supplies to underserved communities across the globe.

• Youth Empowerment: From supporting local Boys & Girls Clubs to mentoring underserved teens, his work ensures that children have access to education, mentorship, and safe environments.

• Animal Welfare: He’s backed numerous pet adoption and rescue efforts, championing compassion for all living beings.

• Global Infrastructure: Gupta’s impact reaches Nicaragua, Nepal, India, and West Africa, where he’s funded:

  • 12 water systems for clean running water

  • 4 playgrounds for safe childhood development

  • 2 schools and 2 libraries to improve access to education and literacy

In recognition of his work, Gupta was inducted into the President’s Circle at Indiana University, a prestigious honor acknowledging his philanthropic contributions both locally and internationally.

From Side Hustle to Global Impact

Gupta’s journey began in the most unexpected way. Born in Chicago and raised in Bloomington, he launched a used car business from his driveway without any formal industry experience. That venture evolved into Premium & Exotic Wholesale, now the largest custom hauler truck company in the country. His entrepreneurial ventures soon expanded into real estate, development, and private equity—but it was his desire to “make the world a better place” that led to the founding of the International Art Project and the Elysian Art Collection.

“I realized the wealth I was building could be a vehicle for real change,” Gupta reflects. “It wasn’t just about art for art’s sake—it was about art that speaks, uplifts, and heals.”

A Legacy in the Making

Whether it’s a mural on the Monon Trail or a new school in Delhi, Daniel Savion Gupta approaches every project with the same vision: build beauty, elevate others, and make a lasting difference. His story is a compelling reminder that leadership doesn’t always come from boardrooms—it often begins with a simple question: What can I do to help?

From Bloomington to Indianapolis to the far reaches of the globe, Gupta’s answer continues to resonate: uplift, empower, and create.

Follow The Empower Her Project on Instagram @theempowerherprojectExplore more about Daniel Savion Gupta’s initiatives at InternationalArtProject.org