The Winter Thaw: An Art Game

In the Chicago area, we often call the time after the holidays, “the long dark.” It’s those quiet, snowy months when the sun rises after 7AM, sets by 4:30PM and “cabin fever” sets in.

During this time I like to focus my art on positive and hopeful subjects. And as I sit in my studio with the sun streaming through the window, I’ve been thinking about how much we all could use a bright spot right now. Art doesn’t have to just something you look at on a wall, it can be a great reason to gather around a table and laugh with the people you love.

That’s why I created “The Winter Thaw” A collaborative art game.

Whether you consider yourself an artist or haven’t picked up a pencil since grade school, this game is for you. All you need is a sheet of blank paper, some pencils, pens or crayons and a friend or three.

If you choose to use a reference photo, have it available for everyone to see while they draw. But, for a real challenge, let everyone use their imagination as they create!

Here’s how it works:

1. You fold the sheet of paper into 4 squares. (feel free to get creative with your folds. Three folds for three people, two sheets of paper for two people. The possibilities are up to you!)
2. Each person takes a turn drawing part of a Spring-inspired picture on their square. No peaking at the other squares!
3. Flip the paper to a blank square, then hand it to another person for them to continue the picture.
4. When all the squares are filled, unfold it to reveal a one-of-a-kind masterpiece you created together.

I love playing this game with friends and family. It’s a great way to celebrate each other’s individuality as we draw at our own skill levels and in the styles we choose.

Here are some picture ideas:

Search online or in your own collection for reference photos.

• A field of flowers
• A tree in a field, with a swing on one branch
• A house at the foot of some mountains
• People at the beach
• A boat on a lake with trees or mountains in the distance