A mural is a massive painting or picture portraying a scene or depicting an idea. It typically adorns a large inside wall or the outside of a building.

For artists, a mural is a creative outlet, self-expression, its own art form. For Heart Artists, a mural can be therapeutic, represent inclusivity and become an avenue for connecting with a community.

"I think (murals) are different for everyone," said Trisha Goldsborough, Friendship Community's marketing coordinator. "The (Heart) Artists get to see their work displayed on such a public place. It makes them feel like a big-time artist. Just the community involvement was a positive, getting them out there and meeting other people. It gets them publicity for their art and expands their portfolios."

Recently, a mural created by Friendship Community's Heart Artists - local individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism - was hung on an outside wall of the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum's gift shop in Manheim Township. The mural was designed and painted to commemorate Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum's 100th anniversary.

The bright, colorful mural was officially unveiled during a mural reveal ceremony on May 23. The community mural is designed to be a permanent feature at Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum.

"Art is a way for everyone to communicate without speaking," said Goldsborough. "We have a lot of artists who are nonverbal or have trouble communicating (verbally), and this gives them a way to talk. It's also expressing yourself. Everyone wants to be heard."

The 8-by-13-foot mural was designed and painted on portable, lightweight parachute material at the Friendship Community's main office studio at 1149 E. Oregon Road, Lititz, before being transported to Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum. The mural took about a week to complete.

"There are a lot of colors and animals," said Goldsborough. "It makes you happy to look at it. It's supposed to give you the vibe of the Lititz area and the community we live in."

"Local muralist Katie (Trainer) worked with us," Goldsborough continued. "She made an outline on a small piece of paper, and then we went through each step. She traced everything out, and then the Heart Artists painted. The colors were their choices, but they had a general design to follow."

More than 20 Heart Artists from all over Lancaster County contributed to the community mural.

"They're really talented individuals who bring out so much joy through their art," said Goldsborough. "You get that by looking at the mural. Each and every one of them always has a positive attitude. When you look at the mural, you can see how much joy they bring."

"For me, my favorite part of the project was meeting people and working with the artists," she added. "It's been so rewarding. When we say Friendship Community, it's true. We're friends, and we're a community."

Founded in 1972, Friendship Community also operates a studio and gallery for Heart Artists at 118 N. Water St., Lancaster. Currently, Friendship Community serves nearly 140 local individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism through its art studios, residential services, day programs and employment support.

"The fact that it's been going so long shows there's a need for our services," said Goldsborough. "Every single year we're growing. There aren't too many organizations out there that do what we do. We've just evolved and gained support."

"We're trying to be a safe space," continued Goldsborough. "We're trying to cultivate capabilities of individuals. We're giving people independence and showcasing their abilities. We want everyone to have a way to be seen in the world. We want people to feel that they're a part of their community."

For additional information, go to http://www.friendshipcommunity.net.