Frequently Asked Questions

  • Taos Rocks is a community art project that invites local artists and community members to paint small works of art on stones and hide them throughout the public areas in the Historic District of Taos for others to discover. It’s about creativity, curiosity, and getting people out walking our beautiful town.

  • Because Taos Historic District is meant to be walked, noticed, and engaged with. This project creates small moments of surprise that connect people to art, to place, and to each other.

  • Everyone. Professional and amateur artists, kids, families, elders, visitors, locals—if you want to paint a rock or hunt for one, you’re welcome.

  • Not at all. #TaosRocks is about the joy of expression and the delight of discovery. Simple designs, words, symbols, and playful ideas are just as valid as complex artworks. It’s all part of the fun.

  • Rocks are hidden in safe public, walkable areas within the Taos Historic District. The joy is in noticing your surroundings and stumbling across one when you least expect it.

  • #TaosRocks is centered in the Historic District of Taos. (Think walking distance to The Plaza) Please stick to public spaces where rocks won’t damage nature, private property, or sacred sites. When in doubt, choose sidewalks, plazas, and clearly public areas.

  • That part’s up to you. You can keep it, re-hide it somewhere new, or pass it along to someone else. There’s no “right” answer. If you find more than one rock in a day, choose one and leave the other for someone else to find. We’d love it if you photographed the rock, or yourself with the rock and tagged us on social media! We are @hashtagtaosrocks! (Also, be sure to hashtag your photo #TaosRocks!)

  • That would be great. Sharing a photo or short video helps others discover the project and join in. It also helps to recognize our professional artist who contribute painted rocks. If you do post, tagging us @hashtagtaosrocks and using #TaosRocks in your post helps connect the dots and build community.

  • Nope. The fun is in the hunt. General vibes are great; exact locations aren’t the point. It does help if you use the following hashtags #taosrocks #taos #taosnewmexico #taoshistoricdistrict #visittaos

  • Yes—Be sure to use rocks that you own or buy, keep messages positive, family-friendly, and respectful. No political messaging, hate speech, or advertising. #TaosRocks is about connection, not controversy. We also recommend that you use non-toxic paints to help guard the environment.

  • Not even a little. Many participating artists are professionals, and adults tend to get just as excited as kids—sometimes more. #TaosRocks is a way that all of us regardless of generation can give and receive joy through art and discovery.

  • Follow along on Instagram, attend painting events, or participate as an artist. New drops and gatherings happen throughout the year.