Founded in 2000 by the Guild of St George, The Big Draw is a visual literacy charity dedicated to raising the profile of drawing as a tool for wellbeing, thought, creativity, and social and cultural engagement. The charity leads a diverse programme of advocacy, empowerment and engagement, and is the founder and driving force behind The Big Draw Festival – the world’s biggest celebration of drawing!
The Big Draw manages collaborative research projects, campaigns and educational conferences on visual literacy, digital technology and STEAM. The charity supports professional and emerging artists through its national contemporary art prize, The John Ruskin Prize and exhibition, and through events, awards, and competitions, creating platforms for each and everyone who wants to draw.
We believe drawing is an essential human skill important in all walks of life, and our work has won support from leading practitioners within the arts, sciences and education. With educational policies increasingly de-valuing the role of creative subjects and careers in our society and economy, The Big Draw strives to ensure access for all to creative events, training and resources.
The Big Draw's continued development is made possible by the support of many organisations and individuals who share our vision. Without them and the commitment of hundreds of venues across the UK and beyond, our mission would be unachievable.
Charity no. 1114811
