From the Earth, a Story Unfolds…
StoryStone Jewellery is a new in-person, online-integrated concept which forms the basis of an outreach activity, working with Leeds Culturally Diverse Hub.
It is a creative activity for people of ethnically diverse backgrounds to explore their geo-heritage by creating fossil necklaces from clay, acrylic paint and beading wire. The activity is accompanied by an online learning platform, providing images and information relating to fossils of the world.
The concept is that an individual will explore fossils from their origins using the online learning platform, and then mould and paint clay fossils based off their personal interpretation of these fossils. It will allow the individual to create a keepsake that links directly to their heritage, which tells their individual story. It will be unique to them, whilst also being an educational experience. By connecting individuals to their geo-heritage, an interest in palaeontology could be piqued and a more diverse geoscience future secured.
Focusing the creative necklace making alongside the online learning platform is of importance. This will allow individuals to explore fossils from many different locations using the prepared educational resources and share their fossil creations on community forums. Sharing their creations may open avenues for connections with people from a similar interest.