Greenwood, October 15, 2025
News Summary
The Greenwood Rocks initiative is celebrating its eighth anniversary with a new exhibit at The Museum in Greenwood. Founded by Robert Stevenson in 2017, this community-driven project encourages the painting and hiding of rocks throughout public spaces, creating an interactive treasure hunt that promotes creativity and engagement across diverse age groups. With over 8,700 members, the initiative showcases community artistry and inclusivity, highlighted by a special exhibit featuring artwork and a short film on display until November 7.
Greenwood, South Carolina – The Greenwood Rocks initiative has reached a milestone, celebrating its eighth anniversary with a new exhibit at The Museum in Greenwood. This project, founded in 2017 by communication professor Robert Stevenson at Lander University, promotes the creative activity of painting and hiding rocks in public spaces, engaging community members of all ages.
Since its inception, Greenwood Rocks has experienced substantial growth, now boasting over 8,700 members who participate in this interactive pastime. The idea for the initiative emerged when a community member inquired why a similar initiative did not exist in Greenwood. This prompted Stevenson to conduct research into existing rock painting groups and ultimately led to the creation of Greenwood Rocks.
To kick off the project, Stevenson produced a video outlining the guidelines for where members could hide their painted rocks. Essential rules include restrictions on hiding rocks in certain locations, such as businesses and public sculptures in downtown Greenwood. Popular hiding spots identified by members include locations around Uptown Greenwood, local parks, and areas near the Aldi store.
A special exhibit showcasing Greenwood Rocks artwork is currently on display at The Museum in Greenwood, running until November 7. The exhibit features a short film highlighting memorable moments from the initiative, accompanied by songs that include “rock” in their titles.
One of the first rocks found through the initiative was discovered by a young man on the autism spectrum, illustrating the inclusive spirit of the activity. Participants often leave hints about the location of rocks, transforming the experience into a treasure hunt for community members.
Stevenson personally paints rocks about once a month and recognizes other prolific painters within the group, including Dale Vickery and Wanda Jonda, who also contribute significantly to the initiative. Vickery has drawn inspiration from seasonal themes for his rock designs, while Jonda began rock painting during the COVID-19 pandemic as a means to share her artistry with the community, particularly with children and those who are homebound.
For those interested in joining the rock painting community, unpainted rocks can be sourced from landscape suppliers or found in nature. Fast-drying acrylic paints and paint pens are recommended for painting. The overall objective of Greenwood Rocks is to bring joy and creativity to individuals of all ages, similar to the excitement of activities like Easter egg hunting.
Community Engagement
The initiative has proven to be more than just a creative outlet; it has fostered connections among community members. Participants of all ages have shared in the thrill of painting rocks and hiding them, promoting interaction and exploration throughout Greenwood.
Recent Developments
The new exhibit provides a visual representation of the community’s diverse artistry and reinforces the project’s commitment to inclusivity. As Greenwood Rocks continues to thrive, it inspires individuals and families to engage with their environment creatively.
Key Features of Greenwood Rocks
- Started in 2017 by Robert Stevenson at Lander University.
- Over 8,700 members participating in the initiative.
- Exhibit at The Museum in Greenwood available until November 7.
- Inclusivity highlighted by the participation of individuals on the autism spectrum.
- Encourages creativity through painting and hiding rocks in designated locations.
FAQ
What is Greenwood Rocks?
Greenwood Rocks is an initiative launched in 2017 by communication professor Robert Stevenson at Lander University, which promotes the painting and hiding of rocks in public spaces, fostering community creativity and engagement.
How many members does Greenwood Rocks have?
Greenwood Rocks has grown to include more than 8,700 members of all ages.
Where can rocks be hidden?
Members must adhere to rules, including not hiding rocks in certain locations like businesses and on public sculptures in downtown Greenwood. Popular hiding spots are around Uptown Greenwood, local parks, and near the Aldi store.
What does the current exhibit feature?
The exhibit showcasing Greenwood Rocks artwork is on display at The Museum in Greenwood until November 7 and includes a short film of memorable moments, paired with songs that include “rock” in their titles.
How can someone start painting rocks?
Unpainted rocks can be purchased from landscape suppliers or found in nature, and fast-drying acrylic paints or paint pens are recommended for painting.
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Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Rock Stars of Greenwood Museum Showcases Painted Rocks
- NWA Online: Live Music in Arkansas – Hank Williams Jr.
- Tennessean: Trump, Vance, Kid Rock, and More
- Legacy: Carol Greenwood Obituary
- Herald Online: High School Sports News
- Wikipedia: Community Art
- Google Search: Rock Painting
- Google Scholar: Community Engagement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Arts
- Google News: Greenwood Rocks
Author: HERE Greenwood
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