I’d start with the concrete slab—cracked, scarred, the kind of surface that already screams neglect. Those jagged edges are where the paint will cling best, but the moisture in the walls will eat through any cheap canvas. Notice the patch of overgrown weeds; that’s the only living thing that’s managed to thrive there. If you want a pop‑up garden, the first thing to tackle is the drainage. You can’t have a stage that turns into a muddy pit every rain. Then there’s the light. The alley gets a narrow strip of sun between the buildings at mid‑afternoon—perfect for a tiny stage. Just paint a concrete stage, put a small pole for a light, and add some hanging lanterns made from reclaimed metal. The plants need some shade; vertical planters on the walls will keep the space airy. I’d choose succulents and air plants for low maintenance, and a couple of bright ferns for a splash of color that won’t wilt. For the murals, choose themes that talk back to the decay—maybe a broken cityscape that’s being healed by vines. Use weather‑resistant paint, and make sure each line tells a story; that’s what will stop the skeptics. And don’t forget the legal side—permits for the stage and the plants, clear signage that the space is safe for performers. If you nail those details, the alley will look like a deliberate, almost intentional, burst of life that people can’t ignore.