Our first project was the Harlan Theatre mural by local artist Deborah King. This interactive mural invites you to be "part of action" with elements designed for taking photos with the scene. Deborah King is a Southwest Iowa mixed media artist and graphic designer. She shares that she is inspired by her relationship with God and seeks to communicate His goodness in all of her work. 

We have continued the Community Canvas initiative in partnership with the Harlan Community School District to complete 8 crosswalk murals around the Harlan downtown square. Harlan Community High School students have done the design and painting work, and project has been incorporated into the art education curriculum.

The students and our team are learning so much throughout this process, including what crosswalk murals will need for long-term maintenance. The City of Harlan Streets Department has been a key partner throughout the projects. After the first winter, we noted needed changes in the approach to snow removal so the plow blades won't scrape off paint. The HS art program is also incorporating repainting needs into curriculum planning, with touch-ups on the murals outside Bauer's Shoe Store in September of 2025 and more to come.