Stones of Scone : Gallery

18 May 2020

A group of creative families in Scone have discovered the perfect way to prevent social isolation and encourage each other to enjoy their outdoor exercise – by playing hide and seek with colourful, painted stones.

The Facebook group Stones of Scone was established two years ago, inspired by a visit to Belladrum where painting and hiding stones around the festival site was a popular family activity.  Read More >>>

Activity has surged during the lockdown period, as a boost to morale and an excuse to get out in the fresh air. Scone families have made good use of time at home to create and hide beautiful works of art around the village, bringing a smile to those who find them while on their daily exercise.

Currently, there are some guidelines in place to ensure that the stones are spreading positivity and not germs:

• Do not hide rocks if you are feeling unwell
• Wash hands for at least 20 secs before and after hiding stones
• Maintain social distancing
• Avoid touching your face
• Clean stones with soap and water, or use an antibacterial wipe
• designs created during the Covid-19 crisis should be sealed with suitable varnish

Inspired to join in, or start your own group? Here’s some tips from Stones of Scone to get you started:

Step 1: Find a nice stone.

Maybe one with an interesting shape or texture, big enough to write and draw on.

Step 2: Paint or draw a design on your stone.

Sharpies and acrylic paint work well and won’t wash off if your stone gets wet. Some members like to use acrylic POSCA pens and spray a quick coat of clear varnish. If you have joined one of your local painted rock groups, you could ask them to post a picture to the group using its hashtag, or you could always come up with your very own hashtag.

Step 3: Hide your stone somewhere

Find the perfect hiding place. You don’t want to leave it anywhere dangerous like the middle of a road or pavement, or where a lawnmower will eat it! Somewhere not too obvious – you don’t want it to be found the second you put it down. If you hide it too well though, no-one will find it!

Step 4: Find other stones

It’s up to you if you choose to collect the stones you find or re-hide them for others. If you choose to keep them, make sure you replace them with one you’ve painted so that the game continues.

GALLERY PHOTOGRAPHERS: The photographs have all been added to the Stones of Scone Facebook page and curated for Small City by the wonderful Linda Allan, who also took time out of her lockdown day to write us up this arty story!