Drawing Together
Reveal insights about a challenge or transition through drawing, using five simple symbols instead of words, then interpreting each other's stories. Adapted from Liberating Structures (https://www.liberatingstructures.com/drawing-together), licensed CC BY-NC 3.0.
4 parts · 8 phases
You'll draw a visual story using five symbols — no words allowed:
- Circle — wholeness, completion, the self
- Rectangle — a foundation, support, stability
- Triangle — goals, aspirations, achievement
- Spiral — change, transformation, cycles
- Star person — relationships and connections
- Draw your visual story
Weave the five symbols into a visual story about a challenge you're facing or a transition you're making. No words.
- Refine your drawing
Refine it in a second draft. Play with size, placement, and color to add depth and drama.
- Silent interpretation
Share your drawings. The artist stays silent while the viewer interprets the story they see. Then swap. Afterward, discuss what you each intended.
- New partner, interpret again
Find a new partner and repeat the silent interpretation.
- Common themes
A few people share their drawings, then the group reflects on common themes.