Embracing Stonework Play™ World-Wide

This workshop invites participants to play with stones. Participants will find that how they arrange their stones can inspire stories that are important to them. The activity provides the insights that build understanding and... [ view full abstract ]

This workshop invites participants to play with stones. Participants will find that how they arrange their stones can inspire stories that are important to them. The activity provides the insights that build understanding and awaken creativity in adults and children.

Stonework Play™ is a form of creative learning, engaging the senses and animating imagination. Stonework Play™ leads each person to create something personal and unique. The weight, form and texture of each stone helps people make the artistic choices that result in original ideas.

Richard Louv’s research tells us that “every child needs nature. Not just the ones with parents who appreciate nature…every child.” He warns of the negative impact of a “nature-deprived society.” Stonework Play™ contributes to his vision by bringing nature’s natural elements — stones — and the enrichment of the imagination to all who care to participate. Each artist, no matter how young, can explore and express emotions, thoughts and feelings by working with the colors and shapes of the stones. The power of the stones helps the stories to emerge.

Stones are a kinesthetic medium, never fixed in their place or meaning, the ground an endless canvas, and small hands the brushes that move them.

In this workshop, participants will gather stones, create a design with the stones, draw a picture of the design, and then write a story about what the stones are revealing. Finally, participants will take a museum walkabout so that their inspirations can be shared.