Energizer: postcard
Objective: The goal of this activity is to establish creative confidence, encourage effortless collaboration, and build the capacity for working together as a workshop group. Minimum group size: 2
Materials:
- Markers (1 per participant)
- Paper, preferably in postcard-sized sheets
Steps:
- Preparation: Participants can sit around a table or in a circle, but this arrangement is not mandatory. Hand out a sheet of paper or a postcard and a pen (marker) to each participant. Ensure that all pens are identical in color and size, not too thick nor too thin, as this consistency tends to yield better results.
- Invitation: Announce to the group that you'll be creating something together in the next few minutes. Let them know you'll guide them through a series of simple tasks, and it's important to follow instructions precisely, especially in the last two steps.
- Instructions for the Group:
- Draw a Form: Each participant starts by drawing a random form on their paper. Once they've completed their drawing, they pass their paper to the person on their left or right. Stick to one direction consistently (left or right).
- Create Something: The next participant, using the form they received from their neighbor, turns it into an object, person, or animal. Then, they pass the paper on.
- Add Context: The next participant adds a context or setting to the drawing they've received from their neighbor and passes it on.
- Add Action or Drama: The subsequent participant adds an action or some drama to the drawing. Emphasize that they should refrain from using text at this stage. After this, they pass on the paper.
- Add Text: The final participant adds text to the drawing, which completes the postcard. You can encourage them to be creative with their text.
Additional Idea: After becoming familiar with the activity, you can introduce some variation:
- Themed Doodling: Play a certain style of music during the creative process. For example, using Christmas songs may lead to interesting holiday-themed postcards.
This activity is a creative and collaborative exercise that encourages participants to think outside the box and fosters creative confidence while emphasizing the value of working together as a team.