Why You Should Draw in Galleries

Museums and galleries continuously present ideas and re-interpret collections from anything as diverse as the natural world, history, geography, science, art, craft, design and more. They celebrate a wonderful cultural heritage of ideas and artefacts and enable us to experience these directly. 

Drawing in galleries and museums is a powerful way to engage with the work on display. No matter your age or ability, the act of drawing transforms passive viewing into an active, immersive experience, creating a deeper understanding and personal connection with the exhibits.

Looking More Closely, Seeing More Clearly

When visitors draw in galleries, they are encouraged to slow down and observe with intent. The process of translating what you see onto paper demands careful attention to detail, leading to a more meaningful interaction with the work on display. What might initially be a glance or a simple moment of appreciation becomes an act of discovery!

Drawing is not merely about replicating what we say but about understanding and interpreting it. It allows you to reflect on your experience, assimilate what you have observed, and make personal connections with the exhibits. This process of looking, analysing, and recording enhances comprehension and deepens your engagement with the collection.

Encouraging drawing in museum spaces also demystifies the creative process. Often, art can feel distant and untouchable, but drawing allows people to engage with it actively rather than passively. It reminds us that art is for everyone and that every visitor has the potential to create and make marks.

Drawing in a museum does not have to be complicated or time-consuming. Many people assume they need advanced skills or intricate materials, but a simple pencil and sketchbook are all that is needed. The key is to focus on the experience rather than the outcome - quick sketches, doodles, or abstract marks can be just as meaningful as detailed renderings. The act of mark-making itself is what enhances engagement, regardless of the style or outcome.

Museums and galleries provide an inspiring setting, but drawing should always be fun and free of pressure. Try to embrace imperfection, experiment with different techniques, and let curiosity guide your sketches. Simply capturing a shape, a texture, or a feeling is enough.

Encouraging Children to Draw and Engage

For children, drawing in galleries is an excellent way to explore their surroundings and express their thoughts visually. Encouraging children to sketch does not mean they have to produce perfect representations—it is about responding to what they see in their own way. Ask open-ended questions like, "What do you notice about this painting?" or "Can you draw what this sculpture makes you feel?" to help them engage with the experience.

Children benefit from being given the freedom to explore different approaches to drawing. They can sketch what they see, make up stories about the artworks, or even combine multiple elements into imaginative compositions. When adults draw alongside them, it reinforces that creativity is for everyone and helps children feel supported in their artistic exploration.

The Big Draw: 25 Years of Bringing Drawing into Galleries and Museums

One of the great joys of drawing in galleries is that it is not only a personal pursuit but also a social and collaborative one. When visitors see others sketching, it fosters an environment where sharing is encouraged. Children and adults, beginners and seasoned artists, can work alongside each other, exchanging perspectives and inspiration. This shared activity transforms drawing from a solitary passion into a collective and purposeful experience.

For the past 25 years, The Big Draw has been championing drawing as a tool for engagement, learning, and creativity in museums and gallery spaces around the world. From interactive workshops to large-scale public events, The Big Draw has encouraged thousands of people to pick up a pencil and discover the joy of drawing in cultural spaces.

One of our earliest events took place at the British Museum, where we explored the power of drawing in museum settings. Watch this video from our first Big Draw at the British Museum to see how we have been inspiring creativity in galleries for over two decades.

Ultimately, drawing in galleries is not just about making images; it is about making connections. It transforms the experience of looking into the act of truly seeing, creating an opportunity for reflection, collaboration, and personal growth. Whether for pleasure, learning, or artistic practice, drawing has the power to enrich the way we engage with museums - and with the world itself.