Portrait Party
A Portrait Party is a unique and interactive way to bring friends together, unleash creativity, and make some truly hilarious (or surprisingly good!) artwork. Whether you’re an experienced artist or can barely draw a stick figure, this party is about having fun, not perfection!
What’s a Portrait Party?
A Portrait Party is a social event where guests take turns drawing or painting portraits of each other. The goal isn’t to create museum-worthy masterpieces—it’s to capture personality, have fun, and share a few laughs. Everyone gets a one-of-a-kind keepsake at the end of the night, and the results can range from impressive to downright ridiculous!
Portrait Revolution
Inspiration, Tips and Techniques for Creating Portraits from the Artists of Julia Kay’s Portrait Party.
Setting the Scene
To make your Portrait Party a success, here are some tips for setting up:
Gather the Supplies
Make sure you have plenty of art materials for guests to use. Here’s what you’ll need:
Paper or sketchbooks (Different sizes for variety)
Pens, pencils, and erasers
Markers, crayons, colored pencils, or paints (Optional but fun!)
Easels or clipboards (For a professional touch)
A timer (For timed challenges)
Create a Fun Atmosphere
- Set up a cozy creative space with plenty of table space, good lighting, and some fun decorations.
- Play a themed playlist—something jazzy, artsy, or even classical to set the mood.
- Have snacks and drinks available to keep the creativity flowing. Maybe even create a special “Painter’s Punch” or “Sketcher’s Sangria”!
Portrait Party Activities
Here are some fun ways to mix up your portrait-drawing session:
🎨 1. Blind Contour Drawings
Each person draws a portrait without looking at their paper—only at the subject. The results? Usually hilariously distorted and unexpected!
✍ 2. Speed Portraits
Set a timer for 2 minutes and have everyone draw a super-fast portrait of someone. The faster, the funnier!
🤣 3. Exaggerated Caricatures
Encourage guests to emphasize unique features—big eyes, long noses, wild hairstyles. It’s all about playful exaggeration!
🖌 4. Partner Swap
Draw half of a person’s face, then swap papers and let someone else finish it. Expect weird and wonderful results!
🖼 5. Mystery Draw
Each guest picks a random trait (e.g., “glasses,” “crazy hair,” “big smile”) from a jar and must incorporate it into their portrait, even if it doesn’t match their subject!
🎭 6. Doodle Self-Portraits
Let everyone create their own self-portrait in their wildest style—stick figures, cartoons, or abstract chaos!
Why Have a Portrait Party?
A Portrait Party is a fantastic way to bond with friends, express creativity, and make lasting memories. Whether you’re drawing a shockingly bad portrait or a surprisingly good one, the joy comes from the process—not the final result.
Ending the Night
- Have a portrait showcase at the end, where everyone presents their favorite (or most ridiculous) portrait.
- Create a mini gallery wall with tape or clothespins to display the night’s masterpieces.
- Let guests take home their portraits as unique party souvenirs!
