The 46′ x 26′ glassblowing mural at 38 South Main Street in Manheim celebrates the glassmaking history of town as the building is part of the historic district of Manheim. The adjacent parking lot only became a parking lot when a building was torn down. The mural wall used to be part of an alley, which is why there are no windows. The lack of windows and the unobstructed sight lines for those traveling south on Route 72 made this the ideal location for a large mural. Plus, directly in front of the wall is a large semicircular space that provides a safe and quaint spot for pedestrians to view and appreciate the mural.
The mural was designed by Jason Horst and Katherine Horst of Horst Arts, and the majority of the mural was completed by them. However, the Heart Artists from Friendship Community also assisted in the painting of the lower portions of the mural.
The Manheim community values its heritage, its history, and family. And the desire is that this mural will build pride in the residents, and especially the youth of the town. A huge thank you to the property owners for believing in the vision of this mural and for allowing it to be created on their property.
Another goal of this mural is to promote the fact that glassblowing still happens in Manheim today. Stiegel Glassworks 1976 is located at 210 South Charlotte Street in Manheim (next to the Railroad Station), making beautiful pieces, with artisans carrying on this historic tradition of Manheim.
Thank you to the Lancaster County Community Foundation, the Manheim Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Women’s Club of Manheim for funding this beautification project!