In this collaborative drawing project, students recreate a large image by drawing one small section at a time. Inspired by Catherine Ruane, students learn to slow down, look closely, and draw what they actually see. Using graphite and charcoal, students focus on value, light, gray, and dark, to build form instead of outlining. By working on just one abstracted piece of the image, students begin to notice shapes, textures, and subtle details they might normally miss.

Each drawing may feel small on its own, but when combined, the class creates one large, connected artwork. Showing how individual effort can become something bigger.

• Seeing Differently – Students learn to look beyond “what something is” and focus on shapes, value, and detail.

• Value Builds Form – Students discover how light and dark make drawings look real and three-dimensional.

• Small Parts, Big Picture – Breaking an image into pieces makes complex drawing more approachable and builds confidence.

• Collaboration & Belonging – Every student contributes to a shared artwork, reinforcing connection and teamwork.

• Focus & Patience – Careful observation and slow mark-making build attention and persistence.

• Beauty in the Everyday – Students begin to notice strength and beauty in overlooked plant life and ordinary spaces.

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