How to Make a Cooperative Artwork showing an artwork called Aspiring to Excellence in cool blues, aquas, greens and gold accents.

How To Make A Cooperative Artwork – A Joyful Way to Connect

Creating art together is a joyful way to connect, inspire creativity, and celebrate shared experiences. If you’re wondering how to make a cooperative artwork, the process is simpler than you think! With just a few steps and a focus on inclusivity, anyone can contribute to a vibrant collective artwork. My Pattern Play Collaborative Art style suits all skill levels. It makes the experience fun. It is accessible for groups of any age.

The process unfolds in three simple stages: Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling. By layering marks, patterns, and embellishments, your group can transform a blank canvas into a dynamic and expressive artwork. Below is a straightforward sequence to guide you through each stage.

Here’s a simple sequence for creating a cooperative artwork:

  1. Set a Starting Point:
    Start with an easy, accessible action like painting circles. For example, ask participants to paint three circles in each colour. Encourage a mix of sizes: some big, some small, and let medium sizes emerge naturally through personal expression. Start SIMPLE!
  2. Build Layers:
    After the first circles, add more elements including spirals, arches, or dots. This encourages overlapping and layering to make the artwork richer and more dynamic.
  3. Explore Patterns:
    Guide participants to repeat patterns, inspired by your ‘Pattern Play’ resources, or invent their own.
  4. Add Embellishments:
    Introduce fun finishing touches like glitter, metallic paint, or stickers to bring life and vibrancy to the artwork.

How To Make A Cooperative Artwork: Aspiring to Excellence

How to Make a Cooperative Artwork showing an artwork called Aspiring to Excellence in cool blues, aquas, greens and gold accents.
How to Make a Cooperative Artwork – Aspiring to Excellence

Aspiring to Excellence
In a recent project, Reception to Grade 2 students created a breathtaking cool-coloured artwork over three sessions. Guided through Pattern Play Collaborative Art, these young artists explored a soothing palette of blues, greens, and aquas. This palette was inspired by their school logo. They layered their work with circles, spirals, and playful marks. The process showcased their creativity and teamwork. It resulted in a harmonious piece that reflected their collective effort. The piece was highlighted by accents of gold.

Start Simple with Messy Playing
Start your cooperative artwork with Messy Playing—the stage where freedom reigns! Encourage participants to make bold marks, like painting circles of different sizes and overlapping them. This playful approach not only breaks the ice. It also lays the foundation for a vibrant background to later stages. This stage is filled with energy and movement. It was painted over a cool coloured underpainting.

Exploring Patterns and Adding Bling
The next steps, Exploring and Bling, bring depth and sparkle to your cooperative piece. Use Pattern Play resources to inspire repeated patterns like spirals, dots, or arches. Finally, we added the magic touch with metallic paints, paint pens, and dot stickers to make the artwork shine. Each layer adds to the story, showcasing the beauty of working together.

How To Make A Cooperative Artwork: Community

How to Make a Cooperative Artwork showing an artwork called "Community" in warm and cool colours layered separately over many sessions.
How to Make a Cooperative Artwork – Community

Community: A Collective Effort
Over two weeks, hundreds of community members came together to create an artwork titled Community. Participants added their marks in alternating layers of warm and cool colours. These alternating colours created a dynamic, vibrant piece. It symbolized unity in diversity. This cooperative artwork celebrated connection, with every contributor’s touch enriching the evolving canvas. The alternating layers means the colours do not blur into a muddy mess.

Start with Messy Playing
The best way to start a cooperative artwork is with Messy Playing. It is a stage of pure creativity! Encourage participants to paint bold marks. These include circles of varying sizes. They should also paint clusters of simple marks like dots, smiles, and dashes. Let their natural creativity flow. This playful, energetic start builds a strong foundation for the intricate patterns and details to come.

How To Make A Cooperative Artwork: Circles of Connection

How to Make a Cooperative Artwork showing an artwork called "Circles of Connection" in warm and cool colours layered separately over many sessions over a happy yellow background.
How to Make a Cooperative Artwork – Circles of Connection

Circles of Connection: Adding the Final Sparkle
A group of adults created it over a few sessions. Circles of Connection shines with the charm of the Bling stage. Doodled patterns appeared in a focal area. Gem stickers were added along lines, around shapes, and in clusters. These details created eye-catching pops of sparkle. These finishing touches brought the artwork to life, showcasing how simple embellishments can elevate a shared creation into something extraordinary.

How To Make A Cooperative Artwork: In conclusion

Creating together is a powerful way to build connections and celebrate creativity. These projects show just how accessible and rewarding cooperative art can be. You can see this in the cool-toned harmony of Aspiring to Excellence. The vibrant layers of Community also show it. The sparkling details of Circles of Connection highlight this accessibility. By using the stages of Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling, you are beginning to understand the process. This process guides you in making a cooperative artwork. It brings people together. This process results in something truly unique. So gather your group, grab some paints, and start creating!


Discover simple tips about how to make a cooperative artwork like these. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.

Happy Painting! Charndra, Your Inclusive Social Art Guide.


Let’s Chat:

Are you keen to try this form of collaborative social art? It’s called ‘Pattern Play Collaborative Art’ because we layer approachable and accessible patterns from my ‘Pattern Play’ visual resources. These resources are tools. They help you create unique and beautiful collaborative art projects. You can paint with groups of people in your life too.

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook | Instagram | Threads to find the featured image. Share your thoughts on collaborative art!

Social painting examples feature showing a work-in-progress stage of a painting with young girl carers.

Social Painting Examples: Empowering Girls Through Collaborative Art

Are you looking for social painting examples that inspire creativity? Do you want to build connections? Explore the possibilities of Pattern Play Collaborative Art. This style combines three simple stages—Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling—to create visually striking, collaborative artworks. The Find Your Confidence and Find Your Courage murals are bold and empowering. The ongoing Girl Power artworks are created in small group settings. Each project highlights the power of social painting to foster confidence, creativity, and community.

Social Painting Examples: Find Your Confidence Mural

Social painting examples featuring "Find Your Confidence" mural created by teenaged girls
Social painting examples: Find Your Confidence Mural (WIP detail)

The ‘Find Your Confidence’ mural was brought to life over five weeks. A group of Year 10 and 11 girls at Aberfoyle Park High School created it together. We started with ‘Messy Playing’ by using rollers to apply a heavy primer coat of white. Then, we applied a second layer of primer tinted with cool blues and greens mixed into aquas. To create a dynamic motley background, we added sponging for texture and variation. This stage encouraged the girls to relax and embrace their creative side. It was non-threatening and fun. They freely added colours while making a bold impact on the old grey wall in a public setting.

Next, we painted big circles and added mark-making, introducing warm tones from what I now call our ‘Vibrant’ colour scheme. Each session used white to create variations and limited the palette to no more than four shades for harmony. To tie it all together, we added burgundy, a nod to the school’s uniform and logo. This is the ‘Exploring’ stage of Pattern Play Collaborative Art.

Vibrant colour scheme used by Painting Around is Fun in Pattern Play Collaborative Art
‘Vibrant’ colour scheme – use three any session!

We explored patterns for a couple of weeks. Then, we moved on to the ‘Bling’ stage. At this stage, the girls used paint pens to embellish the mural with decorative touches. They also had fun experimenting with nail polish and glitter glue to add unexpected details. The glitter will eventually wash away in the rain. Yet, trying something new and playful was the most important part of the experience. And painting dots with nail polish? That was an unexpected highlight!

Group Art Mural Examples: The Find Your Confidence Mural Created by Teenagers showing the work in progress.
A Social Painting Mural Example: The Find Your Confidence Mural

Social Painting Examples: Find Your Courage Mural

Social painting examples featuring "Find Your Courage" mural created by teenaged girls
Social painting examples – Find Your Courage Mural (detail)

The ‘Find Your Confidence’ project had such an impact on the girls. I came back the next year to create another mural with almost 20 girls. We called it ‘Find Your Courage’. We used my ‘Galaxy’ colour scheme, which is very popular with, well, everyone. The mural became part of a SACE 1 program. It contributed 10 points towards the girl’s SACE, which stands for the South Australian Certificate of Education. This is our name for their high school diploma completed over year 11 and 12. We used the same process of ‘Messy Playing’, ‘Exploring’, and ‘Bling’ that I use in all my collaborative art projects. This allowed us to create this massive mural. It now decorates the canteen wall.

'Galaxy' colour scheme used by Painting Around is Fun in Pattern Play Collaborative Art
‘Galaxy’ colour scheme – use three in any session!
Social painting examples featuring "Find Your Courage" mural created by c20 teenaged girls
Find Your Courage Painting in Public!

Social Painting Examples: “Girl Power” Artworks in Progress

Social painting examples featuring a work-in-progress stage of a painting with young girl carers.
Social painting examples – Girl Power (in progress)

My daughter is a ‘young carer,’ providing support to her sibling with complex needs. While this role helps her develop valuable skills and empathy, it also comes with challenges to her education and wellbeing. In my parent carer group, we regularly bring our young girls together to chat and play. During these gatherings at my home, I set out two canvases. Every time we meet here, the girls add another layer to the artwork. It is a fun, ongoing activity. The image above shows one stage of the process, reflecting the collaborative spirit of eight girls contributing their unique marks. We’re using a cool colour scheme, intentionally avoiding a mix of warm and cool tones. For each session, I offer 3–4 colours, with a particular size of brush. Several of my Pattern Play Visual Resources are nearby, allowing the girls to freely experiment. Once the layers feel done, we’ll move on to the ‘Bling’ stage. We’ll decorate with paint pens to add the finishing touches. That’s the beauty of Pattern Play Collaborative Art. It’s all about spending time together. It also focuses on exploring creativity without the pressure of performance or comparison. We simply keep adding layers until the artwork becomes visually dynamic, rich, and beautiful. Regular people like you can do this with a canvas. Use three related paint colours and white. Choose some nice synthetic brushes you can get at your local variety store. Synthetic brushes are preferred to hog hair brushes. Join my list below. Get your free guide. It’s the most minimal form of art your family can do.

Social Painting Examples: In Conclusion

These Social Painting Examples show you the transformative power of collaborative art in fostering creativity, connection, and empowerment. The bold colours and textures of the Find Your Confidence and Find Your Courage murals stand out. The intimate creativity of the Girl Power artworks shines through. Each project reflects the beauty of shared experiences. Participants follow the simple stages of Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling. They create vibrant, layered pieces. These pieces celebrate individuality. They also strengthen their sense of belonging. Pattern Play Collaborative Art offers a fun and accessible way for anyone to engage in the joy of social painting.


Discover simple tips about how you can create social painting examples like these. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.

Happy Painting! Charndra, Your Inclusive Social Art Guide.


Let’s Chat:

Are you keen to try this form of collaborative social art? It’s called ‘Pattern Play Collaborative Art’ because we layer approachable and accessible patterns from my ‘Pattern Play’ visual resources. These resources are tools. They help you create unique and beautiful collaborative art projects. You can paint with groups of people in your life too.

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook | Instagram | Threads to find the featured image. Share your thoughts on collaborative art!

Ideas for community art projects feature image featuring 'Companionship', a collaborative artwork created over 2 weeks by several hundred painters.

3 Creative Ideas for Community Art Projects to Bring People Together

Looking for Ideas for Community Art Projects that spark creativity and connection? Discover the transformative process of Pattern Play Collaborative Art. This style unites people through three simple stages: Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling. The vibrant, warm-toned “Conversation” project at Westfield Marion showcases creativity. Its companion piece features cool, harmonious hues. The Myriad Exhibition radiates inclusive energy. These projects show how collaborative art fosters companionship. They also nurture creativity and a sense of community.

Ideas for Community Art Projects: Conversation

Ideas for community art projects image featuring 'Conversation', a collaborative artwork created over 2 weeks by several hundred painters.
Ideas for community art projects: Conversation

In October 2022, the “Art Story” Social Art Project was held at Westfield Marion. It invited 575 community members to collaborate on a vibrant series of artworks. The collaboration took place during daily open studio sessions. This inaugural Art Story project emphasised connection through creativity. The title “conversation” symbolises the natural result of companionship – chats leading to conversations. It also represented the sense of community that developed throughout the process. The artwork began with Messy Play, as participants used sponges, scrapers, rollers, and stencils to form a dynamic background. Layer by layer, the group explored Circle Play and Mark Making, decorating with patterns and embellishments. Through this inclusive process, the project celebrated community creativity. It culminated in three sophisticated, visually captivating pieces; this one in warm hues of red, orange, coral, pink, and yellow.

Ideas for Community Art Projects: Myriad in Harmony

Ideas for community art projects image featuring 'Myriad in Harmony', a collaborative artwork created over 3 sessions by 80 painters visiting an art exhibition.
Ideas for community art projects: Myriad in Harmony

The “Myriad in Harmony” project invited the community in. People can co-create a vibrant artwork as part of the Myriad Exhibition at the State Library. Over three days, 80 visitors contributed to a 1m x 1m collaborative piece. They explored warm colours like reds, pinks, yellows, and oranges. All of this was painted over a striking blue background. Participants used my Pattern Play Printable Cards, which have simple patterns to either copy or inspire your creativity. They experienced the joy of creating together. The layers of unique marks built a visually dynamic piece. This project highlighted inclusivity. It celebrated the collective creativity of people with diverse abilities. It fostered a sense of unity through the artistic expression of so many people of all ages and abilities.

Ideas for Community Art Projects: Companionship

Ideas for community art projects image featuring 'Companionship', a collaborative artwork created over 2 weeks by several hundred painters.
Ideas for community art projects: Companionship (detail)

A companion piece to “Conversation,” this project embraced a cool colour palette of blues, greens, and purples. It mixed with white for soft variations. It used deep blue for striking accents. While the warm tones of “Conversation” symbolised connection, this artwork highlighted the importance of companionship. It fulfills the fundamental human need to be with others. Collaborative art became the bridge between social connection and shared creativity, fostering a sense of belonging and well-being. Layer by layer, participants built a harmonious visual narrative. This process proved that art can serve as a catalyst for both personal expression and community bonding.

Ideas for Community Art Projects: In conclusion

These Ideas for Community Art Projects demonstrate the power of Pattern Play Collaborative Art. They bring people together through creativity and connection. The Westfield Marion Art Story project used sets of warm and cool colours to celebrate companionship and conversation. The Myriad Exhibition channeled inclusive energy. Each project highlights the transformative impact of working collaboratively. Participants combine the simple stages of Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling. They create meaningful and dynamic artworks. These artworks foster both individual expression and a shared sense of belonging.


Discover simple tips about how Ideas for Community Art Projects like these can be painted by YOU. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.

Happy Painting! Charndra, Your Inclusive Social Art Guide.


Let’s Chat:

Are you keen to try this form of collaborative social art? It’s called ‘Pattern Play Collaborative Art’ because we layer approachable and accessible patterns from my ‘Pattern Play’ visual resources. These resources are tools. They help you create unique and beautiful collaborative art projects. You can paint with groups of people in your life too.

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook | Instagram | Threads to find the featured image. Share your thoughts on collaborative art!

Article: Collaborative Art Ideas To Try At Home: Unique Projects and Your Free Guide featuring 3 examples of collaborative art projects in the 'Pattern Play' style of collaborative Art.

Collaborative Art Ideas At Home: Unique Projects and Your Free Guide

I have a free guide. It will get you started with Pattern Play Collaborative Art. The guide is called “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home.” It guides you through three stages. These stages are Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling. The process helps create unique and beautiful artwork with your family or friends. Let me share three examples of Collaborative Art Ideas at Home. I’ve enjoyed doing these with my kids. I hope each one sparks your creativity. Each project highlights the joy of working together, experimenting with patterns, and bringing our collective vision to life. I hope they inspire you to start your own collaborative art journey!

Collaborative Art Ideas at Home: “Hide and Seek: Mia’s Rose”

Article: Collaborative Art Ideas To Try At Home: Unique Projects and Your Free Guide featuring 'Hide and Seek" - a collaborative art projects created with a toddler.
Collaborative Art Ideas to Do at Home: Hide and Seek: Mia’s Rose

Collaborative art at home is a beautiful way to create lasting memories while exploring your creativity. One of my favorite projects is “Hide and Seek: Mia’s Rose.” I started this whimsical piece with my daughter when she was a toddler. We started with a large printed canvas from a budget store. We painted over it with white to soften the original design. This technique allowed hints of colour to peek through. Using a limited palette of blue, pink, and white, we added layers one day at a time. Each session focused on a single colour and technique. We either brushed broad strokes or stamped with a balloon. This made it simple and fun for little hands. The artwork, still evolving, hangs proudly in her room, a reminder of our creative journey together.

Collaborative Art Ideas at Home: “Utopia” (Work in Progress)

Article: Collaborative Art Ideas To Try At Home: Unique Projects and Your Free Guide featuring a Work In Progress of the 'Utopia' series of collaborative artworks.
Collaborative Art Ideas to Do at Home: Utopia (Work In Progress)

Another exciting project in progress is our “Utopia” series, a collaborative exploration of imagination and creativity. We drew inspiration from the vibrant colour palette of the TV show Utopia. We’re creating six artworks using aqua, purple, magenta, yellow, and light green, adding white for variations. My kids and I are using my “Pattern Play” tools to spark ideas. We add circles and simple patterns. We respond to each other’s contributions. Each session is filled with playful experimentation, layering colours and textures to bring the canvases to life. It’s a joyful, evolving process that captures the fun of working together and embracing spontaneity.

Collaborative Art Ideas at Home: “Incognito Art Show”

Article: Collaborative Art Ideas To Try At Home: Unique Projects and Your Free Guide featuring one of 12 artworks created by a family for the Incognito Art Show held annually in Australia.
Collaborative Art Ideas to Do at Home: Incognito Art Show

The “Incognito Art Show” in 2024 was another meaningful collaborative art project we tackled at home. We used the vibrant ‘Mermaid’ colour scheme, which includes pink, white, aqua, orange, and blue. For variations, we used white. My three kids and I created 12 A6-sized artworks. We taped them together as one large piece. We started with playful mark making. Then we added spontaneous linework using black conte. Next, we applied layers of collaborative pattern play with acrylics. Each of us then finished three pieces individually, adding personal touches with paint pens. The completed artworks were sent to Sydney. They support studios that help artists living with disabilities. This blends creativity and a good cause into a truly special project.

Collaborative Art Ideas at Home: In conclusion

Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home - a simple step by step guide to creating your unique and beautiful artwork!

Collaborative art is a wonderful way to connect, create, and have fun at home. From the playful layers of Hide and Seek: Mia’s Rose, to the imaginative Utopia series, these projects highlight creativity. The meaningful Incognito Art Show project also shows how easy and rewarding it can be to work together. You will explore simple patterns and make clusters of marks and add your own personal touches. Each stage—Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling—brings something special to the process. Ready to start your own project? Download my free guide. It’s called Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home. Get inspired to create your own Pattern Play Collaborative Art!


Discover simple tips about how collaborative art ideas at home like these can be painted by YOU. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.

Happy Painting! Charndra, Your Inclusive Social Art Guide.


Let’s Chat:

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook, Instagram, or Threads. Find the featured image and share your thoughts on collaborative art ideas to do at home!

Adult Group Art Project showing "Circles of Connection"

Need an Adult Group Art Project? Expressive Activities for All Skill Levels

An adult group art project offers an engaging and inclusive way for people to connect and create together. Using the principles of “Pattern Play Collaborative Art,” these projects typically involve three simple stages: Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling. These stages encourage participants to express themselves freely. They experiment with patterns. Participants add final touches that bring the artwork to life. Whether it’s painting circles, layering colours, or adding intricate designs, each step fosters collaboration and creativity. All the painters have fun exploring their creativity in a fun environment.

Adult Group Art Project 1: My Time: Circles of Connection

Adult Group Art Project showing "Circles of Connection"
An Adult Group Art Project – Circles of Connection

Engaging in an adult group art project is a powerful way to foster connection and creativity within communities. One memorable example is the “My Time: Circles of Connection” artwork, created alongside adult parent carers. This vibrant piece was the result of a collaborative effort that celebrated the carers’ experiences and unique contributions. The artwork featured interlocking circles in warm, inviting colours, symbolizing the connections and shared journeys of the participants. Through shared painting sessions, the carers discovered new ways to express themselves while forming meaningful bonds. My Time supports parent carers of children with disability.

Adult Group Art Project 2: Myriad in Harmony

Adult Group Art Project showing "Myriad In Harmony"
An Adult Group Art Project – Myriad in Harmony

Another inspiring project was “Myriad in Harmony,” a large-scale collaborative artwork created during a public art exhibition. Over three days, 80 individuals came together to contribute their creativity to a vibrant 1m x 1m canvas. Participants used warm hues of red, pink, yellow, and orange over a bright blue background. They painted circles, spirals, and patterns that intertwined seamlessly. The result was a striking visual representation of unity and diversity. It showcased the beauty of collaboration. It also brought out the joy of artistic expression.

Adult Group Art Project 3: We Talk Together (WIP)

Adult Group Art Project showing "We Talk Together"
An Adult Group Art Project – We Talk Together (Work in Progress)

The “We Talk Together” project is still underway. It is evolving as a dynamic work in progress with my Parent Carers’ My Time group. This artwork is an ongoing exploration of connection and chatting through creative expression. Each session brings new layers of colour, patterns, and meaning as participants contribute their unique voices to the piece. The project evolves to show the constantly changing and diverse experiences of carers. This evolution makes it a poignant and meaningful endeavour. Once completed, it will stand as a symbolic memory to the power of art in bringing people together. My Time is is for all parents and carers of children under the age of 18 who need a higher level of care than other children. This might be because of disability, a chronic medical condition, or other additional needs including developmental delay.

An Adult Group Art Project : In conclusion

These examples highlight the transformative impact of an adult group art project. They showcase how such initiatives can inspire creativity. They strengthen connections. They also celebrate the diverse experiences of participants. Whether completed or still evolving, each project is a reflection of the unifying and expressive power of collaborative art.


Discover simple tips about Adult Group Art Projects like these can be created by YOU. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.

Happy Painting! Charndra, Your Inclusive Social Art Guide.


Let’s Chat:

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook | Instagram | Threads to find the featured image. Share your thoughts on Adult Group Art Project ideas!

Community Art Event Ideas to Bring People Together showing Art Story: Conversation.

Community Art Event Ideas to Bring People Together

When it comes to fostering connection and creativity, few experiences rival the magic of a community art event. At the heart of these gatherings is the joy of creating together, sharing stories, and building bonds. One standout example I developed and ran is the Art Story. The event took place at Westfield Marion in Adelaide, South Australia. It was a collaborative art event using my Pattern Play Collaborative Art approach. It brought people of all ages and abilities together in a shared artistic journey. During the simple stages of Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling, 600 participants unleashed their creativity. They connected with others and contributed to these vibrant shared artworks. The event featured three distinct collaborative artworks titled Companionship, Conversation, and Community, each symbolising an essential aspect of human connection.

Community Art Event Ideas 1: Companionship

Community Art Event Ideas to Bring People Together showing Art Story: Companionship
Community Art Event Ideas: Companionship

One of the most fundamental human needs is Companionship, which became the first artwork in the Art Story Community series. I used my fun and interactive Pattern Play Collaborative Art approach. Visitors to Westfield Marion were invited to paint. This occurred during the two weeks of the program. During the Messy Playing stage, they added bold marks, vibrant circles, playful spirals, and dots to the canvas. Each day alternated between warm or cool colours, creating a dynamic and layered progression. While Community grew each day, the other two canvases, Companionship and Conversation, took turns being painted on alternate days. This ensured each artwork evolved uniquely. I used either cool or warm colours at any one time. This made it both easier for myself, the painters and the creation of the artworks.

Community Art Event Ideas 2: Conversation

Community Art Event Ideas to Bring People Together showing Art Story: Conversation
Community Art Event Ideas: Conversation

After Companionship, the artwork Conversation captures the next natural step in developing community. People start to connect, chat, and share meaningful exchanges. During the Exploring stage of the Pattern Play Collaborative Art process, painters are encouraged to draw inspiration. They take ideas from simple, accessible patterns. These pattern resources are available in my online shop. Using progressively smaller brushes, participants added these patterns in creative ways. They clustered them together, arranged them in lines, surrounded shapes, or extended them inward from the edges of the canvas. With each addition, the artwork changed. Painters responded to and built upon the contributions of earlier participants. This process visually embodied the connections sparked throughout the process.

Community Art Event Ideas 3: Community

Community Art Event Ideas to Bring People Together showing Art Story: Community
Community Art Event Ideas: Community

The final artwork, Community, and its multiple colours is loved by many. It shows the goal of human connection. This connection is an outcome of companionship and conversation culminating in shared belonging. All three artworks were elevated during the Bling stage. This thrilling finale included participants adding decorative embellishments. They used paint pens, glitter glue, and, uniquely for this project, sparkly nail polish. These smaller tools allowed for intricate details. Participants applied the same accessible patterns in new ways. They added shine, depth, and personality to the vibrant layers beneath. The artworks in this series show a transformational journey. It begins with individual marks and ends with a collective artwork. This process celebrates the joy of creating. It also highlights the joy of connecting as a community.

Community Art Event Ideas: In conclusion

You may be organising a school program, a neighborhood celebration or a workplace team-building event. In all cases, The Art Story serves as an inspiring model. It shows how community art event ideas can come to life. These projects are accessible to all, making them perfect for fostering inclusivity and collaboration. By creating art together, participants experience the joy of connection. They feel satisfied as they contribute to something larger than themselves. This is a nod to the transformational power of collaborative art.


Discover simple tips about how community art event ideas like these can be painted by YOU. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.

Happy Painting! Charndra, Your Inclusive Social Art Guide.


Let’s Chat:

How can Community Art Event Ideas like the Art Story series inspire connection and creativity in your local area?

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook | Instagram | Threads to find the featured image and share your thoughts on Community Art Event Ideas like the Art Story.

Feature graphic for How to Make an Inclusive Social Artwork showing a detail of Myriad in Harmony.

How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork

In the world of art, the process of creation can be as important as the final piece. The impact is especially true when it involves community engagement. The Myriad in Harmony project shows this. It serves as a guide on how to make an inclusive social artwork through my unique style of collaborative art. This style is known as Pattern Play Collaborative Art. The project unfolds in three simple stages. The first stage is Messy Playing, where participants start with free expression. Next is Exploring. This stage allows for layering and detailing. Finally, Bling brings the artwork to life with vibrant embellishments. These stages show the power of collaboration in artistic expression. They show inclusivity by inviting individuals of all ages and abilities. Everyone can contribute to a shared creative experience. 80 people spontaneously created this beautiful artwork over three sessions.

How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork 1: Messy Playing

How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork showing the Messy Playing Stage of warm colours over a bright blue background.
How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork – Messy Playing

The Messy Playing stage of the Myriad in Harmony project was the vibrant foundation. It created an inclusive social artwork at the Myriad Exhibition. During this phase, participants of all ages and abilities took creative steps. They used large brushes and warm colors. The artwork was painted over a blue underpainting. The focus was on free expression. Attendees engaged in mark-making with big circles, spirals, and arches. This allowed their individual flair to shine. This hands-on, playful approach fostered a sense of community among visitors. It laid the groundwork for next stages of the artwork. This showcased the power of collaborative creativity and the joy of shared artistic experiences.

How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork 2: Exploring

How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork showing the Exploring Stage of warm colours in patterns over a bright blue background.
How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork – Exploring

The Exploring stage of the Myriad in Harmony project built upon the foundation laid during the Messy Playing phase. It invited participants to refine their contributions with fun accessible patterns. Visitors used medium and small brushes to layer simple patterns. They applied these patterns onto the vibrant backdrop. Their unique touches enhanced the artwork. This stage encouraged individuals to focus on adding intricate details, promoting a sense of ownership and pride in their contributions. As participants collaborated, they engaged in friendly discussions, further deepening connections within the community. The Exploring stage changes the first spontaneous expressions into a richer, more textured artwork. It highlighted the creativity and perspectives of all involved. Meanwhile, it maintained a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.

How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork 3: Bling

How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork showing a close up of the BLING stage
How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork – detail of the Bling!

The Bling stage of the Myriad in Harmony project was the final flourish. It brought the collaborative artwork to life. This stage added an element of excitement and sparkle. Participants eagerly grabbed paint pens. They incorporated decorative patterns that built upon the layers created in the earlier stages. Their creativity shone through in bold and vibrant ways. This phase encouraged everyone to add their personal touch, whether it was through intricate designs or playful embellishments. The use of dot stickers and glittery sparkle enhanced the visual appeal of the artwork. It also fostered a sense of joy among the contributors. Celebration was a key part of the process. As visitors adorned the piece with these playful elements, they celebrated their collective achievement. A captivating masterpiece emerged that embodied the spirit of collaboration. It also highlighted inclusivity and community connection.

How To Make an Inclusive Social Artwork: In conclusion

In summary, How to make an inclusive social artwork is a multifaceted process. It thrives on collaboration and community spirit. This is demonstrated through the Myriad in Harmony project. Starting with the Messy Playing stage, participants engaged in free expression, laying the groundwork for creativity. This was followed by the Exploring stage, which encouraged individuals to add depth and detail to their contributions. This approach fostered a sense of ownership. Finally, the Bling stage infused the artwork with vibrant patterns and playful embellishments. It all culminated in a beautiful example of participatory art. This masterpiece reflects the collective memories and experiences of all involved. Through these stages, the project showcased the power of inclusivity. It also highlighted the joy of creating together. These stages serve as a blueprint for future social art initiatives.


Discover simple tips about how to make an inclusive social artwork like Myriad in Harmony. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.

Happy Painting! Charndra, Your Inclusive Social Art Guide.


Let’s Chat:

Are you keen to try this form of collaborative social art? It’s called ‘Pattern Play Collaborative Art’ because we layer approachable and accessible patterns from my ‘Pattern Play’ visual resources. These resources are tools. They help you create unique and beautiful collaborative art projects. You can paint with groups of people in your life!

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook | Instagram | Threads to find the featured image. Share your thoughts on collaborative art.

3 Group Art Mural Paintings to Inspire You!

3 Group Art Mural Paintings to Inspire You!

Group Art Mural Paintings are a powerful way to bring people together, inspire creativity, and build community. I call my unique approach Pattern Play Collaborative Art. It guides participants of all ages and abilities through three simple stages. The stages are Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling. These stages encourage spontaneous mark-making, layering of patterns, and adding final details that bring the artwork to life. These collaborative projects empower teenagers to find their courage. They offer carers a space to unwind and connect. They also foster teamwork among young athletes. They showcase the transformational power of shared creativity.

Group art mural paintings example 1: Find Your Courage

3 Group Art Mural Paintings to Inspire You! Showing "Find Your Courage", a large mural created by 18 teenaged girls.
Group Art Mural Paintings Inspire Teenagers!

The “Find Your Courage” mural stands as a vibrant example of the power of collaborative creativity, especially among teenagers. This student-driven project encouraged participants to step out of their comfort zones. They worked together in a public space. This fostered a sense of confidence and cooperation. Through painting side by side, the teenagers discovered the joy of creating something larger than themselves. They expressed their individuality within a shared and spontaneous vision. The resulting mural became a symbol of empowerment. It reminds participants of the courage it takes to create and connect. It inspires onlookers with its message of bravery.

Group art mural paintings example 2: Carer Support Garden Mural

3 Group Art Mural Paintings to Inspire You! Showing the Carer Support Garden Mural created by a group of parent carers.
Group Art Mural Paintings Bring Adults Together

The Carer Support Garden Mural brought together a group of parent carers. They created a serene and uplifting artwork. It reflected their shared experiences and the importance of sharing those ideas to help each other. This group art mural project provided a space for participants to unwind, connect, and express themselves through collaborative creativity. The mural, inspired by it’s garden setting, came to symbolise growth, resilience, and the nurturing roles of carers. Each individual contributed their unique touch, yet the collective effort resulted in a cohesive and harmonious design. The mural serves as a lasting reminder of the importance of community and the healing power of art.

Group art mural paintings example 3: Soccer Mural

3 Group Art Mural Paintings to Inspire You! Showing the Soccer Mural created with warm colours by over 30 primary school students.
Group Art Mural Paintings Connect Kids

The Soccer ‘Hitting Wall’ Mural at Ascot Park Primary School demonstrates how collaborative art can unite and inspire young athletes. The project was created in 2020 by 26 primary-aged children from the school’s Specialist Soccer Team. It transformed a plain practice wall into a vibrant celebration of teamwork and creativity. The students were guided through multiple sessions. They layered techniques including stamping, stenciling, sponging, and fine brushwork. These techniques helped to craft a visually captivating mural in warm, attention-grabbing colours. Each participant contributed across the mural, fostering a sense of pride and personal ownership. The final artwork showcases their individual and collective creativity. It serves as a daily reminder of the importance of collaboration. This Vince Lombardi quote reflects the project: “Individual commitment to a group effort makes a team work. It makes a company work. It makes a society work. It makes a civilization work.”

Group art mural paintings: In Conclusion

Group Art Mural Paintings beautifully illustrate the magic of collaboration, creativity, and community. The empowering “Find Your Courage” mural inspired teenagers to embrace bravery and connection. The reflective Carer Support Garden Mural symbolizes resilience and shared growth. The vibrant Soccer ‘Hitting Wall’ Mural unites young athletes through teamwork. Each project highlights the transformational potential of collaborative art. By using the Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling stages within the Pattern Play Collaborative Art approach, these murals become dynamic creations. They represent more than just artwork. Murals become vibrant expressions of collective effort. They are lasting symbols of unity, creativity, and the joy of working together.


Discover simple tips about how group art mural paintings like these can be painted by YOU with your group. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Beginner’s Guide to Collaborative Art: The Pattern Play Collaborative Art Method”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.


Ready to try group art that connects people? Start with Pattern Play resources!

Whether you’re a teacher, a facilitator, or simply someone who loves the idea of bringing people together through art, I’ve got everything you need to start:

Happy Painting!
Charndra – Your Inclusive Social Art Guide

Let’s Chat:

Are you keen to try this form of collaborative social art? It’s called ‘Pattern Play Collaborative Art’ because we layer approachable and accessible patterns from my ‘Pattern Play’ visual resources. These resources are tools. They help you create unique and beautiful collaborative art projects. You can paint with groups of people in your life!

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook | Instagram | Threads to find the featured image. Share your thoughts on collaborative art.

Article: Class Group Art Projects: Bringing Students Together Through Art showing a glimpse of Growing Together

Class Group Art Projects: Bringing Students Together Through Art

Class Group Art Projects bring students together in a fun, hands-on way, where creativity flows and teamwork shines. Using Pattern Play Collaborative Art, these projects guide students through three engaging stages. The stages are Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling. These projects create vibrant, collaborative artworks with the kids creating together as their skills and abilities combine. Each project, like King Leo, Fiery Circles, and Growing Together, combines the contributions of every participant into a cohesive whole. They combine expressive patterns, dynamic colours, and layered textures. This process builds meaningful, shared artworks that celebrate unity and imagination.

Class Group Art Projects 1: King Leo

Class Group Art Projects: Bringing Students Together Through Art showing King Leo, a collaborative collage project
Class Group Art Projects: King Leo

Class Group Art Projects offer a unique and inclusive way for students to connect, communicate, and celebrate their creativity. The King Leo project epitomises this collaborative spirit. Students and staff came together to create a colorful series of painted papers. They then cut these into circles and strips. The circles were then cut into spirals by the kids. These pieces were added to the canvas using glue, and the layers give the artwork a textured feel with shadows. I painted the lion’s face between sessions. Each student contributed their own pattern flair to the artworks, inspired by samples I had available for reference. You can buy these ‘Pattern Play visual resources’ at my Shop. They blended patterns over the collage pieces. They did this in clusters, in lines, using paint pens related to the painted paper colours.

Class Group Art Projects 2: Fiery Circles

Class Group Art Projects: Bringing Students Together Through Art showing Fiery Circles, a joint collaborative painting project with warm colours.
Class Group Art Projects: Fiery Circles

The Fiery Circles project encouraged incorporating bold colors and swirling forms. It gave students the chance to experiment with expressive mark-making. They also explored dynamic circular patterns. This Class Group Art Project used warm tones of red, orange, and yellow. It involved layering circles, spirals, and arches. This combination produced a fiery, cohesive artwork. It symbolised their unity and energy in creating it. Through these repetitive shapes and patterns, students learned about rhythm in art. They discovered the impact of collaboration. Each layer built upon the earlier one to create a stunning group piece. The project showcased that simple shapes can transform into captivating artwork. This happens when they are repeated and varied in size and color. This artwork reflects the energy and enthusiasm of its young creators. The result was a vibrant canvas. Each student personalised their own canvas with stick on gems. They added these dots in clusters or around a shape. Then, they took their part of this art project home to share and admire.

Class Group Art Projects 3: Growing Together

Class Group Art Projects: Bringing Students Together Through Art showing Growing Together a collaborative group canvas painting of cool colours.
Class Group Art Projects: Growing Together

The Growing Together project was an interactive Class Group Art Project. It took place with students during a school vacation care program. It highlighted the importance of teamwork in art-making. Students used the Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling stages of my Pattern Play form of Collaborative Art. They added layer upon layer of marks and patterns. This created a 1m x 1m collaborative artwork. The completed piece is now displayed at Forbes Primary School. It serves as a joyful reminder of the friendships formed between kids of different ages at vacation care. It also highlights the sense of unity fostered through collective creativity. With its lively blend of colours and patterns, Growing Together exemplifies how collaborative art projects can strengthen connections. They inspire pride among students. These projects leave a lasting impact on their school community. This artwork has been displayed at many school events. It fills the 30 students who were involved in its creation with pride.

Class Group Art Projects: In conclusion

Class Group Art Projects like King Leo, Fiery Circles, and Growing Together show the power of collaborative creativity in schools. Students follow the three stages of Messy Playing. They explore and add bling within the Pattern Play Collaborative Art approach. This allows them to experience the joy of teamwork and artistic expression. These projects leave a lasting impact. They build community and confidence. Simple shapes and colors are transformed into meaningful, shared artworks. These artworks show the spirit of unity and creativity.


Discover simple tips about how class group art projects like these can be painted by you and your students. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.

Happy Painting! Charndra, Your Inclusive Social Art Guide.


Let’s Chat:

Are you keen to try this form of collaborative social art? It’s called ‘Pattern Play Collaborative Art’ because we layer approachable and accessible patterns from my ‘Pattern Play’ visual resources. These resources are tools. They help you create unique and beautiful collaborative art projects. You can paint with groups of people in your life!

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook | Instagram | Threads to find the featured image. Share your thoughts on collaborative art.

Social visual art projects - a fun collective collage project

3 Social Visual Art Projects That Build Social Skills

Social visual art projects offer a unique way to connect people through creativity. They use three simple stages—Messy Playing, Exploring, and Bling—to build social skills. These projects also foster teamwork. In these projects, participants experience Pattern Play Collaborative Art, a style that encourages vibrant self-expression and shared authorship. These collaborative art projects range from intergenerational paintings to imaginative monster cityscapes to vibrant harmony banners. People of all ages engage with art and one another in meaningful ways through these projects.

Social Visual Art Projects 1: Intergenerational Art Project

Social visual art projects - an intergenerational art project between seniors and primary school students
Social visual art projects promote inter-generational cooperation.

Screens and solitary activities often dominate our world. Social visual art projects offer a unique way to bring people together across age groups. They foster connection and collaboration. A powerful example is “Our Collaborative Intergenerational Paintings.” This project was completed at Marion Resthaven in the summer of 2019. It began at a local primary school Vacation Care. This inspiring project bridged generations. Children from a vacation care program joined residents at an aged care center. Together, they created a series of colorful, layered artworks. The project encouraged the young participants to practice patience. It taught them empathy and cooperative skills. They worked side by side with the elderly residents. The collaborative process strengthened their social skills. It also helped build meaningful intergenerational bonds. This created lasting memories for everyone involved. The Messy Playing and Exploring stages were completed with the kids at the school. They assisted the seniors with the Bling stage at the local retirement facility.

Social Visual Art Projects 2: Monsters on Skyscrapers!

Social visual art projects - a fun collective collage project
Social visual art projects promote communication skills

The second project, “Monsters on Skyscrapers,” sparked both creativity and collaboration. It was a unique cityscape-themed collage art activity with primary school students at Vacation Care in 2021. The project was designed as a social, collage-based activity. It encouraged children to work together on a shared night-time city skyline. This skyline was brought to life on long strips of kraft paper. The project started with a “Messy Playing” stage. During this stage, cool tones of pearl blue and purple were sponged across the roll of kraft paper. This paper would later become the skyline. The students rotated around the paper, ensuring everyone left their mark on the entire piece. In the next stage, “Exploring,” each child crafted their own skyscrapers from painted papers using simple templates they traced around. They added windows and other details using markers and stickers. Finally, for the “Personalisation” stage, each child created a cut-paper monster. The monster was made from only a small square of coloured paper. They used expressive face stickers to give their monster a personality. These monsters either “attacked” their section of the city or “protected” it. Their section was an A3 section cut from the long strip of city skyline. They then spontaneously told stories about their unique creatures. By sharing these imaginative tales, the children engaged in meaningful storytelling. They listened attentively and expressed themselves creatively. Through art, they strengthened their social bonds!

Social Visual Art Projects 3: Harmony Banners

Social visual art projects - harmony banner created by primary school children
Social visual art projects promote social skills

The third project, “Harmony Banners,” embraced the spirit of collaboration. It also promoted unity in celebration of Harmony Day at Marion Primary School OSHC. Over a three-week period, 42 children contributed to creating three vibrant 1m x 2m calico banners. They used harmonious colour schemes. One was cool, one was warm, and the other harmonised the colours of orange, yellow, and green. New techniques were introduced each week. This offered students the chance to explore various techniques like masking, blending, sgraffito, brushwork, stenciling, and doodling. The project also included fun additions like bingo dotters and glittery “bling” elements. Each child added their personal touch with a range of media. The banners became a patchwork of pattern play (an earlier form of those offered in my online shop). These came together as cohesive works of art. The children’s enthusiasm grew as they saw the layers build each week. They experienced artistic “flow” as they added to the banners. The collaborative nature of the project motivated them to take pride in the final pieces. They felt a strong sense of shared authorship and accomplishment. These “Harmony Banners” beautifully symbolised the joy of coming together and celebrating diversity through art. They were presented to the school on Harmony Day and continue to hang around the school.

Social Visual Art Projects: In conclusion

These social visual art projects showcase the power of creative collaboration. Our Collaborative Intergenerational Painting, Monsters on Skyscrapers, and Harmony Banners foster social skills. They also build empathy and teamwork. Each project brought unique activities. They offered storytelling opportunities that encouraged participants to connect meaningfully with one another. These connections happened across generations, through imaginative cityscapes, or in the spirit of community harmony. These shared experiences show how social visual art projects can create lasting bonds. They inspire creativity and celebrate diversity in truly engaging ways.


Discover simple tips about how YOU can develop social visual art projects like these. Join my Inner Circle email group. I’ll give you “Starting Your First Social Art Project at Home”, my free 7-page guide. It makes it effortless for you to paint a unique artwork using this fun style of collaborative art.

Happy Painting! Charndra, Your Inclusive Social Art Guide.


Let’s Chat:

Are you keen to try this form of collaborative social art? It’s called ‘Pattern Play Collaborative Art’ because we layer approachable and accessible patterns from my ‘Pattern Play’ visual resources. These resources are tools. They help you create unique and beautiful collaborative art projects. You can paint with groups of people in your life!

Want to join the conversation? Head to my Facebook | Instagram | Threads to find the featured image. Share your thoughts on collaborative art.