Today, May 11th, 2025, marks the beginning of something truly special — a dream brought to life, a story carved in stone, and a new space where art, culture, and soul meet.

We are thrilled (and a little emotional!) to officially open the doors to Surrendering to Stones, our online home for authentic Shona sculptures, handcrafted in Zimbabwe and shared with love from Toowoomba, Queensland.

This launch is more than just a website going live — it’s a moment years in the making. A moment that honours tradition, celebrates craftsmanship, and brings something sacred and soulful into homes across Australia and beyond.

The Heart Behind It All

For those just joining us, welcome — I’m Debbie, founder of Surrendering to Stones, and the heart behind this vision. I’ve long been a lover of crystals and all things spiritually grounded in nature. My connection to the Earth runs deep — especially in my garden, which has always been my sanctuary. It’s the place I go to reconnect, reflect, and feel truly held by the natural world.

For many years, I sold and collected crystals, always drawn to the way the Earth holds wisdom and energy in physical form. Then, one day, life offered me something unexpected: an opportunity to purchase hundreds of authentic Shona sculptures from Zimbabwe. I didn’t go searching for them — they found me. And in that moment, I truly surrendered to the stones.

That’s where the name comes from. “Surrendering to Stones” is not just a brand — it’s a reflection of what happens when you follow the call of something deeper. When you let yourself be guided by the Earth, by spirit, by art — and trust that you’re being led somewhere meaningful.

A Family Effort

While I may be the heart behind the business, I couldn’t have done this without my daughter, Cahlua — the same one who referred to herself as the “unofficial IT department” on our Facebook page! She’s been there behind the scenes making sure the website is working, helping with logistics, and cheering me on every step of the way.

It’s a joy to have been building something together — something rooted in legacy, grounded in spirit, and carried forward by love.

What You'll Find Here

As of today, you can now explore our online store and browse a beautiful, growing collection of Shona sculptures. Each piece is one of a kind, sourced ethically, and lovingly photographed to show you all its natural beauty.

Soon, we also may add other items to our online store overtime, but for now, the spotlight is entirely on the incredible work of Shona artists.

Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift, a centrepiece for your sacred space, or a connection to something deeper, there’s a sculpture here waiting for you.

More Than Just Art

This business isn’t just about selling sculpture. It’s about sharing living stories. Every curve, every texture, every mark made by the artist’s hand carries meaning. Some pieces depict mothers holding children and other family themes. Others reflect ancestral spirits, unity, or transformation.

We believe these pieces speak to something ancient inside us — something sacred. And in a fast-moving world, they invite us to pause, to feel and to connect.

We’re So Glad You’re Here

Launching today feels surreal. There’s been months of planning, unpacking, photographing, researching, learning, doubting, believing — and now finally, we get to share this all with you.

To our early supporters, friends, family, and future customers: thank you. Your encouragement and interest have meant the world. We can’t wait to see where this journey takes us, and we’re honoured that you’re here at the very beginning.

We hope this space becomes more than just a shop. We want it to be a community rooted in earth, culture, and spirit — a place where art connects people, stories inspire reflection, and beauty finds its way into your everyday life.

What’s Next?

In the coming weeks, we’ll be:

• Adding more sculptures to the store

• Sharing deeper stories about the Shona people and stone-carving traditions

• Highlighting individual artists and their unique styles

• Possibly popping up at a few local Toowoomba markets and events!

So keep an eye out, and follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and a few surprises along the way.

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With Love and Gratitude

Thank you for being here as Surrendering to Stones takes its very first steps. We can’t wait to see which sculptures speak to you, what stories you connect with, and how this art finds its way into your heart and home.

Here’s to honouring the earth, celebrating culture, and following spirit — one stone at a time.

With love,
Debbie
Surrendering to Stones