Phil Castle, Business Times

Lynnea Tai has for years staged a treasure hunt of sorts in which she hides the necklaces and bracelets she makes and offers clues on social media as to where people can find them.

Tai said the so-called art drops offer a way for her to give back, but also promote DarcMoon, her Grand Valley business that makes and sells malas and mala kits.

The effort will become even bigger this year with what’s billed as the Grand Valley Art Drop scheduled for April 8.

Tai said she’ll join with other artists and businesses in filling five bags with artistic creations and gift cards that will be hidden in Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade. Each bag will contain more than $200 worth of items, she said. “That’s pretty awesome.”

On April 8, Tai will post clues about the locations of the bags on her Facebook and Instagram accounts. Participants will have to conduct a bit of research to figure out where to look, she said.

Tai expects hundreds of people to participate either in actively searching for the bags or following along to find out what happens. “It becomes something fun to do.”

A good time also serves a good way to promote the participating artists and businesses as well as the local arts and culture more generally, she said.

Tai makes malas, which can be worn as necklaces and bracelets, but also have long served a functional purpose in aiding in meditation and prayers. Tai said she often makes unique malas for specific customers using different beads and gemstones because of the properties they offer. Some stones calm, while others heal and protect.

She also sells mala kits and stages workshops and other events.

Clues for the Grand Valley Art Drop will be posted April 8 on the DarcMoon page on Facebook and Instagram account @darcmoon_. For additional information about DarcMoon, visit the website at https://darc-moon.com.