Hi there,

Here's a simple idea to try in your next painting session:

Patterns from the Edge

Instead of placing patterns in the middle of the artwork, encourage participants to let them emerge from the edges.

I've included a few examples below from collaborative artworks where patterns emerge from the edges, helping to connect different parts of the painting together. These artworks were created by many hundreds of people of all ages and abilities. Real people, real art!

⬆️ A wiggly "river" travelling from one edge to another and a spiral swirling in

⬆️ Ferns curling in from the side

⬆️ Rows of simple arches clustered or looping from an edge ⬇️

⬆️ "Lollipops" growing up from the bottom edge

⬆️ 'Reeds' reaching in from the sides

As you work, vary the sizes and avoid making everything symmetrical. A little unevenness creates a more interesting result, and gives the painters confidence as they improve their hand-eye coordination and strength.
 

Sometimes the simplest shift in approach can open up a whole new range of possibilities. I certainly found these patterns from the edge elevated the artworks.

Happy Painting,

Charndra

P.S. My once-a-year Flash Sale is coming up soon. I’ll be offering the Pattern Play Starter Pack bundle at a special price for a limited time. I’ll share more details with you shortly.