‘Connecting humanity dot by dot’
Windsor’s Travelling Kindness Rocks spreading a message of hope across the globe
Ginger LeBoutillier has opened up a Travelling Kindness Rocks store on Water Street in Windsor. While there, visitors can view rocks destined to travel, purchase painted items, clothing or tools — all of which helps support the Travelling Kindness Rocks initiative — and register for special dotting events. he
Special S i l painting i ti events t are held h ld throughout the year where people can, either in person or virtually, learn the basics of dot painting and, in one session, create a beautiful masterpiece. They can also purchase items at the Travelling Kindness Rocks storefront on Water Street in Windsor. The tools and patterns used to create beautiful dot designs are also handmade (her husband, Steve, is the lead tool producer) and are for sale.
One fundraiser that is coming up will benefit Christmas Angels. LeBoutillier is hosting a class of 100 at the Super 8 Hotel in Windsor on Nov. 26 from 6-8:30 p.m. The group will dot paint a holiday ornament (painters have a choice of a Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa mandala pattern), and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Hants County Christmas Angels.
Understanding the symbolism
LeBoutillier said the Travelling Kindness Rocks are loaded with symbolism, and each one is customized to suit the person on the receiving end.
The rocks are black with a colourful mandala hand-painted in the middle of them.
“The very first dot that’s painted on any rock is always white. That represents hope or, if somebody has a religious or spiritual belief, they may find that significant to them as well,” said LeBoutillier.
“The base colour, before there’s any dots at all, is black. That represents the dark times in that person’s (life).”
The Travelling Kindness Rocks are sent via mail, with the postage being paid upfront.
“It is a gift from everybody. Even though there is somebody painting it, the rock is not from them — they’re just taking that symbolism and putting it to life on the rock for the recipient.”
LeBoutillier’s rocks have travelled the world. They’re popular across Canada and the United States and there is interest in Europe, South Africa and beyond.
LeBoutillier said the rocks send kindness to the recipients, which is rewarding for those involved with painting the stylized mandalas.
“We’ve come up with a tagline: connecting humanity dot by dot,” said LeBoutillier, adding that’s exactly what the Travelling Kindness Rocks have been doing.