Trust & communication · Creativity
Back-to-Back Drawing
One partner describes a simple picture; the other draws it without seeing it. The results are funny and very revealing.
Quick answer
How do you run Back-to-Back Drawing with a team?
One partner describes a simple picture; the other draws it without seeing it. The results are funny and very revealing. Duration: 20 minutes. Group size: 4–100 people. Setting: Virtual. Below you will find a step-by-step guide, the materials and facilitator tips.
- Duration
- 20 minutes
- Group size
- 4–100 people
- Setting
- Virtual
- Energy level
- Calm
- Materials
- Simple line drawings (shapes, a house, a logo), Paper and pens, Chairs placed back to back, or cameras off for remote pairs
- Price
- Free, no sign-up
Objective
Practise clear instructions and active listening.
Materials
- Simple line drawings (shapes, a house, a logo)
- Paper and pens
- Chairs placed back to back, or cameras off for remote pairs
Step by step
- Pairs sit back to back; the describer gets a picture.
- In 5 minutes the describer explains how to draw it without naming the object.
- The drawer may not ask questions in round one.
- Compare drawings, then swap roles and allow questions in round two.
- Discuss the difference questions made.
Facilitator tips
- Pick pictures with clear geometric shapes.
- Display all drawings together for a quick gallery walk.
Variations
- Team relay: each person adds one element described by the previous one.
Accessibility
Seated activity. For participants with low vision, use tactile shapes or building blocks instead of drawings.
