Thank you for choosing “The Big Picture” as your artistic project! This idea began as a family endeavor, where each of us—along with contributions from friends and guests—colored sections of a larger image. The result was a beautiful blend of perspectives, styles, and abilities coming together as a single piece of wall art. Now, I’m thrilled to share this experience with you!
What’s Included
Pre-Prepped Canvas Squares: Together, they form one large, continuous image. The drawing is lightly sketched in pencil across all four canvases, like a puzzle. Each canvas is marked on the back with a grid code (e.g., 1A, 2A, 1B, or 'upper right, lower left') to help you arrange them correctly. You can work on each square individually while keeping in mind how it connects to the others. Trace the pencil lines with a Sharpie or Posca pen for bold outlines, or keep them subtle for a softer look.
One Extra Blank Canvas Square: Use this as a test canvas! Experiment with colors, techniques, and tools to familiarize yourself with the materials before starting the main project.
Reference Photo: This shows how the full image fits together, but remember, this is your chance to add your personal flair.
What You’ll Need
While you can experiment with different art materials, here are two I recommend:
Acrylic Paints: These work well on canvas and come in various options to suit your budget or preferences. (Recommended Set)
Permanent Markers: Posca markers are a great choice for vibrant and precise details. You can find it here (Recommended Set)
Additional Materials:
Acrylic Paint Brushes: Choose a variety of sizes for different effects (Recommended Set).
Paint Palette: Use a ceramic plate, plastic lid, or an old plastic tray or buy a palette like this one- (Recommended Palette).
Important: Test your materials on the extra canvas square before starting the main project. This will help you get a feel for the tools and techniques.
How to Begin
Set Up Your Creative Space
Gather your group in a comfortable area. Lay down a protective covering and arrange the canvases in their proper order.Start with the Test Canvas
Use the blank canvas square to test colors, techniques, or tools. This is your playground for exploration before diving into the main pieces.Plan Your Approach
Work on the project square by square or collaborate on areas that connect. The process is flexible and should fit your group’s dynamic.Let Creativity Flow
While keeping the overall image in mind, encourage everyone to add their unique touches to each square. The magic happens when individual styles blend into one cohesive masterpiece.
Helpful Tips
Check the Reference Photo: Use it as a guide, but don’t feel restricted by it.
Get Creative with Colors and Patterns: Feel free to stray from the original colors. Spice up “boring” or uniform areas with patterns, textures, or unexpected colors.
Add Your Personal Touch: Don’t hesitate to tweak or erase parts of the original pencil sketch if inspiration strikes.
Get Inspired: Visit The Big Picture page for examples of how bold patterns and colors can transform your work.
Displaying Your Artwork
Once all the squares are completed, bring them together like a puzzle to form the full image. Use the grid codes on the back to easily arrange them in the correct order.
I recommend using wall stickers for easy mounting. They allow you to display your finished artwork without the hassle of framing or nails. Here’s a link to the type of stickers I use.
Share Your Journey
I’d love to see how your project turns out! If you can, take photos or videos along the way:
Snapshots of your group at work or the final piece hanging on your wall.
Time-lapse videos of the painting process (so fun to rewatch!).
Share your “Big Picture” and your experience—it inspires others to get creative too! Feel free to tag me or send your photos directly.
https://www.instagram.com/karmit.jacobson/
Give Me Your Feedback
Your thoughts and experiences mean so much to me! Did you enjoy the project? Do you have suggestions for improvement? I’d love to hear what worked, what could be better, or any creative stories that came out of the process. Your feedback helps me refine and grow this project for others to enjoy.
Thank you for bringing this idea to life with your creativity. The Big Picture is more than art—it’s a reminder that when we each contribute something unique, we can create something truly special together.
Enjoy the journey, and happy creating!
Warmly,
Karmit Jacobson