Indigenous Story Stones

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Create your very own story using these beautiful Story Stones! Draw symbols on the stones and see if you can remember what they each represent as you build your stories. This activity highlights the significance of Indigenous and Aboriginal symbols, while teaching creative thinking.

Symbols are a fundamental part of Aboriginal art and used to share culture and tradition. Symbols are used to tell stories without the need for words and often depict animals, plants, nature and ancestral beings. (ART ARK, 2025)

The artwork for these story stones has been created by Michelle Napanangka Earl, Artist & Basket Weaver. As a proud Darkinjung woman with Wonnarua ties, Michelle has a personal connection to the Hunter Valley - respectfully teaching and celebrating the traditional Aboriginal culture of the communities that reside across the valley.

CleverPatch™ recommends educators, teachers and event organisers work in consultation with their local Aboriginal Communities (start locally and extend out geographically) when planning activities & learning experiences. Any creative or art making activity that mirrors or replicates Aboriginal cultural experiences should always be undertaken in consultation with the appropriate owners of that cultural property.

Some materials and products may contain terms that reflect authors' views, both current or past. These views may not be considered appropriate today and are provided in a historical context. These views are not necessarily the views of CleverPatch.

Step 1Download the Indigenous Story Stones template created by Michelle or research Aboriginal symbols that are used in storytelling and artworks. Some of these symbols may include animals and their tracks, tools (e.g. Spears, Boomerangs, Coolamons), natural elements (e.g. waterholes and sandhills) or people. Use these artworks to consider the symbols and their meanings, including their significance to Indigenous communities past and present.
Step 2Using paint markers, draw a symbol onto each stone. Allow to dry.
Step 3Placing one stone at a time, create a story. You might like to research Dreamtime stories to inspire your creations.
CleverTip – Form a small group and take turns placing a stone, each creating part of the story to make this a fun collaborative activity!

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Indigenous Story Stones

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NAIDOC Week & Reconciliation

Celebrate indigenous culture with our NAIDOC Week craft ideas.

Indigenous Story Stones

Get ready to craft! This Idea uses:

Materials used in this activity