Geocaching involves objects hidden at locations for participants to find using GPS locations available on the internet. If you don't have a GPS system, you can get an app for geocaching on your phone, and it is possible to geocache with only a map and a compass (after you have obtained cache coordinates via the geocaching website).
Easy Steps to Geocaching
- Register for a free membership.
- Click "Hide & Seek a Cache."
- Enter your postal code and click "search."
- Choose any geocache from the list and click on its name.
- Enter the coordinates of the geocache into your GPS Device.
- Use your GPS device to assist you in finding the hidden geocache.
- Sign the logbook and return the geocache to its original location.
- Share your geocaching stories and photos online.
When we met with Tiffany, the task-at-hand was to prepare the Real Small Art for its placement at a cache Tiffany located via the geocache website. She mentioned that artists may protect their artworks inside of small weatherproof containers to be placed at caches.
Tiffany prepares artwork for placement.We chose to meet at a location that was close to the cache, and we had a short walk to find the hiding place.
As we walked, the map on Tiffany's phone showed us nearing the cache. Tiffany explained that individuals who are experienced with a compass and map-reading could also geocache.
One of the nice things about the phone app was that when the map showed us as being at the location, Tiffany clicked on a "Hints" tab to get more specific clues about the cache's location.
Upon locating the cache, we checked out the log inside of it- this is where geocachers sign in to show that they have located this cache. Sometimes they leave an item that may be exchanged for something new by the next cache-finder. Tiffany signed the log, left her piece of Real Small Art, and showed us how she could log in to her geocache account to record her visit to this specific cache.
We hunted down a nearby cache and got really excited when we started to discuss the possibility of downtown caches... especially caches located in Hollywood Cemetery!
Tiffany is hopeful that this system of posting and locating Real Small Art could provide Real Small Art participants a new way to interact through art-hunts.
Our thanks to Tiffany for letting us in on Real Small Art and geocaching. We think this is a great innovation in the Richmond art scene, and we are excited to keep up with their evolution!
Check out Real Small Art League's blog for Tiffany's own account of her first geocaching experience and for more information- you can also contact her with questions.
