It demands thoughtfulness, creativity and elements of uniqueness. The act of giving is an art.

People looking to start their holiday shopping and those who just want to explore the local art scene need look no further than the annual Parkwalk sponsored by the Lititz Art Association (LAA).

LAA will present this year's Parkwalk on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the front section of Lititz Springs Park, 24 N. Broad St., Lititz. The exhibition is designed to showcase fine arts and crafts from artists.

The event is free to attend, and the artists will make some of their works available for purchase.

"For the artists, (creating is) a labor of love," said Carolann Van Wyen, LAA's public relations director. "They want to talk about it, and they want the people coming to ask questions. It also gives the potential buyer the background for the piece they're considering. You want that dialogue. You want that conversation. We find that the people at this show are holiday shopping. It allows consumers to have access to unique gifts and to have a story to go with that gift."

"Art is important because it's a reflection of the artist," continued Van Wyen. "At an art show, every artist's booth is going to be different; it's going to be unique. Artists create what's special to them, what's in their hearts. Then they present it to the world and hope that someone like-minded connects with it. The viewer learns about themselves from the artwork being displayed."

More than 52 mainly local artists will show off their paintings, sculptures, ceramics, photography, jewelry, woodworking and fiber creations. Examples of the artists' work can be previewed at http://www.facebook.com/lititzparkwalk.

"The Lititz Art Association isn't about raising funds," said Van Wyen. "It's about providing opportunities for artists to present their works to the world. The artisans are the why. They've become experts in their mediums. You'll find them speaking to the public about their processes. There was a process to selecting the fabric and manipulating the pieces. They want to talk about those things because that's what makes their products different."

"(The show is) special because it's inclusive with crafters who take their crafts to the next level," Van Wyen continued. "You don't see some of these mediums at fine arts shows."

The origin of the Lititz Parkwalk can be traced to the last century, when the event was known as the Lititz Porchwalk for being conducted on the porches and lawns of local residents. The Parkwalk is one of five events staged by the Lititz Art Association each year. Each is different and designed to connect the local art community with the local community.

"The Lititz Art Association is a healthy organization with a diverse group of (130) artists," said Van Wyen. "The artists are generous with their gifts. They want to share everything they know. They're caring and open. We're excited. We're busy. To put on these events requires participation. That's what keeps it a vibrant part of the Lititz community."

For additional information about the Lititz Art Association, go to http://www.lititzartassociation.com.