Collective Creation Through Exquisite Corpses
Workshop at Konstkollektivet 10-Year Jubileum 2024
Introduction
Kotte took the opportunity to hold a surrealist collaborative workshop in this "advanced" Exquisite Corpse activity. Drawing from the rich traditions of surrealism, participants created fantastical, unpredictable artworks by combining individual contributions into a single piece. Through playful experimentation, we explored the power of chance, imagination, and collective creativity to produce unexpected and unique masterpieces. No prior experience needed—just curiosity and a willingness to have fun!
Workshop Overview
Participants were asked to draw anything they want, on one half of an A3 page, using markers, pencils or oil pastels. Once they were done they had to cover their half of the page with a dark sheet of paper, leaving just a few millimeters of their drawing showing, for the next participant to use that as a clue.
The key is that two people contributing to one drawing do not see each other's parts of the drawing until the reveal of the entire drawing at the end. It is a pleasant surprise.
Workshop Review
People of all ages joined us enthusiastically. When we introduced them to the idea of the workshop they thought it would be fun to see what would come out of the collective creations. There was a 2 year-old child who spent more time drawing than usual at home. We also had adults and seniors (pensioners) taking the task very seriously even though they are not artists or people who usually spend time drawing. Curiosity got people to try and give their best.
In the end, the creations speak for themselves, and the creativity created through collaboration. Each piece speaks to the other half in unique and unexpected ways, and all are truly exquisite creations!
Inspired by this project? Let’s collaborate and create something amazing!
