A new craze is taking towns and cities by storm. It is all about painting rocks, then hiding them in public places for others to find.

The fad has been going on in Tallahassee since the first of the year, and Bainbridge resident, Shanell Schuyler, who works in Tallahassee, has brought it to Bainbridge, aptly calling it Bainbridge Rocks.

She says she joined the group in Tallahassee, which now has over 8,500 participants, and has found it to be so much fun she wanted to share the joy in Bainbridge. That is the whole point of the project, according to Schuyler, to spread some joy in the community. Friends and family can spend time together painting and creating the rocks, then take them outside to hide for others to find. She refers to it as “hunters-keepers,” indicating they become public property once they are placed.

Some finders may re-hide them to see what happens.

Schuyler describes some of the rocks as being very artistic, while others are just cute or funny. Some may contain messages of encouragement.

Asked where one may find a rock, she said they are often placed outside public buildings, perhaps on a window sill, or in the crook of a tree. She has put some in Willis Park near the monuments. She cautions they should not be placed in grassy areas as it could cause a malfunction when mowing occurs.

Small groups are getting together to paint them. One such group for youngsters will be in the morning Saturday, June 24, at the Robinson Tai Kwon Do on the square, when Jody Poitevint will be helping kids paint rocks.

Jennifer Cannon Brannan Matthews has also opened her studio for a rock painting session on July 8 from 3 to 5 p.m. It will be for adults and teens. Those wishing to participate should bring some supplies, such as acrylic paints, brushes and, of course, some rocks.

The opportunity for participation is limited only by the availability and a desire to be creative. It could be an excellent recreational activity for those in nursing or assisted living homes.

The next time you are out and about town, take a closer look around. You just might be a finder. Or, if interested in joining a group, you are invited to contact either of the above referenced instructors, or Shanell Schuyler at (423) 773-3131. There is also a Bainbridge Rocks Facebook page with more photos and information.

Go on and spread a little joy in Bainbridge.