Stories Before Words
Across the ancient world, people used the colors of the earth to tell stories on stone. Mineral pigments such as iron oxide, yellow ochre, and charcoal were ground into powder, mixed with simple binders, and applied to rock surfaces to capture animals, journeys, and moments from daily life. Archaeologists continue to study remarkable sites like Lascaux Cave, where vivid images created thousands of years ago still offer a glimpse into the experiences and imagination of early human communities.
In Stories Before Words, participants explore this tradition through a hands-on workshop inspired by prehistoric cave painting. Working with natural mineral pigments, participants will grind earth materials, experiment with both dry and wet pigment techniques, and create their own visual story on a piece of natural stone.
What We’ll Cover:
- The discovery of prehistoric cave art and what sites like Lascaux reveal about early human life
- How natural mineral pigments such as iron oxide, ochre, and charcoal create color
- Techniques for grinding raw pigment and mixing simple paints
- Dry and wet pigment application methods used on stone surfaces
- How images communicate meaning through symbols, movement, and composition
Ideal For:
- Ages: Teens and Adults
- Libraries, museums, art studios, nature centers, and cultural programs
- Summer reading events built around “Unearth a Story”
- Small group formats that combine creativity with hands-on exploration
Educational Themes:
- Archaeology and prehistoric art
- Early human communication and symbolic thinking
- Natural materials and mineral pigments
- Visual storytelling and interpretation across cultures
We Provide:
- Natural stone tiles for each participant
- Mineral pigments (iron oxide, yellow ochre, charcoal)
- Grinding tools and mixing materials
- Brushes and application tools
- Optional reference images of prehistoric cave art
Standard Workshop Length: 120 minutes