Shipshewana/LaGrange County CVB Wins Award for "I Love Shipshe" 3-D SculptureThe Shipshewana/LaGrange County Convention and Visitor's Bureau is thrilled to accept the Best IN Indiana Activation award for the innovative and interactive “I Love Shipshe” 3-D sculpture.The announcement was made at the Indiana Tourism Conference in Fort Wayne, attended by 300 tourism leaders over three days. Executive Director Sonya Nash accepted the award, highlighting the community-driven efforts and boosting local tourism and engagement in Shipshewana. “The I Love Shipshe' sculpture could not have been accomplished without the dedication, partnership, and craftsmanship of incredible partners and creators of the CVB. We are grateful for the support of the Farmstead Inn, the Indiana Destination Development Corporation, and craftsman Christy Miller. The work of art is an invitation to visitors to take selfies and explore the walkable streets of Shipshewana.” The “I Love Shipshe” Sculpture is found on the grounds of the Farmstead Inn. The CVB partnered with the Director of Marketing at the Farmstead Inn & Conference Center, A Shipshewana Trading Place Property, Lora Gates, to develop the 3-D sculpture. “This project was a true collaboration, and I'm thrilled to have had the opportunity to contribute to its design concept, creating an interactive and memorable experience for our visitors. Seeing guests interact with the sculpture and watching so many take a part of becoming the “I” in Shipshe is so fun! Receiving this award is a testament to the power of public art in bringing people together.” “I Love Shipshe” Sculpture Details - Interactive design invites visitors to be the “I” in Shipshe, a nickname for Shipshewana. - Supported local economy and community by collaborating with local Amish craftsman Christy Miller. - Measuring 3 feet tall, coated in steel, and handmade by Miller in his workshop - The piece features large, metal letters in a playful horse & buggy design. - Letters stand 54 inches tall and 28 inches wide. Social Media Engagement - Facebook post featuring "Dolly Parton" as the "I" reached 200,000 people, generating 199,100 impressions and 1,000 likes. - Encourages visitors to use the hashtag #VisitShipshewana. - On average, posts featuring user-generated content (UGC) of the sculptures drive around 20 clicks each to visitshipshewana.org. - The sculpture garnered 5,500 views and 5,000 clicks from visitshipshewana.org to its location on Google Maps. The CVB partnered with the Indiana Destination Development Corporation to include the IDDC's logo on the sculpture. The collaboration is a strong example of promoting tourism and economic development across the state. "The Shipshewana/LaGrange County CVB consistently adds innovative projects to their incredible lineup of activities and attractions," said Amy Howell, IDDC Interim CEO. "The 'I Love Shipshe IN Indiana Sculpture' is a meaningful representation of local culture and a wonderful way to engage with their visitors, making them the "I" in Shipshewana. The IN Indiana Activation award is a well-deserved recognition for their efforts that extend far beyond this, and we are grateful for their partnership." This project elevated the local tourism experience, promoted social media engagement, and supported community and economic development. The sculpture's continued presence promises further activation and engagement for Shipshewana. The “I Love Shipshe” sculpture is expected to increase social media interactions by 5% annually throughout its 10-year display period. Be sure to take your photo and be the “I” in Shipshe! Learn more online! Submitted: 03/11/25 Article By: LaGrange County Convention & Visitors Bureau |