By 
THERE is a Banksy on the loose in Gortin… and they are leaving behind them a myriad of beautifully-painted rocks and pebbles in plain sight.
The mysterious phenomenon was discovered by local group, RODDYROCKS, who are now on a mission to uncover the person behind the magically-appearing creations. In recent times, the newly-formed, quirky group have been encouraging people from Tyrone and further afield to paint and decorate rocks of all themes and patterns, and place them in areas frequently walked to bring some happiness, joy and smiles to others.
The founding members, Marianne Marechaux and Amanda Gilmour frequently leave their decorated stones, some which feature inspirational and positive messages, on a two mile stretch of road by their Gortin homes… But they have been bowled over of late as a mystery artist keeps leaving exquisitely painted rocks beside theirs – and they have no idea who it could be!
What is even more curious is that when Marianne and Amanda left a message on their RODDYROCKS Facebook page saying that they’d like to say ‘hi’ to the anonymous painter, a further mystery rock appeared on their walk featuring the reply: ‘HI YA!?’.
Now the ladies are even more determined to uncover this ‘Banksy’ of Gortin.
“We have an incredibly talented anonymous rock painter who has been very kindly leaving their beautifully decorated stones with ours,” they said. “Please let us know who you are.”
They added, “So far, the reaction to our group has been fantastic. Lots of people have engaged with us on Facebook, and are beginning to create their own rocks and post their photos on Facebook. Others are finding the rocks we have done, and are taking photos of them too.
“We’d really encourage this interaction,” they continued. “We’d love to see painted rocks find their way across the countryside, local villages and towns. Painting them is a great way to do something creative and positive to pass the time, and the creations are sure to bring some peace, hope and happiness to the finders.”
• For more information, and to show off your painted rocks, join the public RODDYROCKS Facebook page
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
SUBSCRIBE TO CURRENT EDITION TODAY
and get access to our archive editions dating back to 2007(CLICK ON THE TITLE BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE)