.jpg)
While we’re busy decking the halls and wrapping presents, why not add a touch of creativity to your celebrations this year?
Hosting a family pet painting competition is the perfect way to bring everyone together for some festive fun – and with pets as the stars of the show, it’s bound to be a memorable event!
Here’s everything you need to know to make your family’s pet painting competition a holiday highlight.
1. Set the Scene for Festive Fun
Transform a cosy corner of your home into an art studio. Lay down a large tablecloth or some newspaper to protect your surfaces, and stock up on basic painting supplies: canvases, paints, paintbrushes, pencils, and even some glitter for added Christmas sparkle. Setting out some mince pies and hot chocolate (or a mulled wine for the grown-ups!) will make it a truly festive experience.
For added cheer, put on some classic Christmas tunes and let everyone don their favourite festive jumpers. It’s not just about painting; it’s about creating an atmosphere that’ll make everyone feel inspired and merry!
2. Choose Your Muse: Featuring Your Family Pet(s)
The star of this competition? Your beloved pet! Whether it’s a fluffy cat, a cheeky dog, or even a fish in a bowl, let each family member paint their unique rendition of the family’s furred or feathered friend. If you have multiple pets, you can even assign a different one to each person or let everyone choose their favourite animal to capture.
For those with young children, consider printing out photos of the pet in different poses or even letting them have a quick sketch session to study the pet’s face and features. This helps build anticipation, especially if your pet has a personality all its own.
.jpg)
Keep the rules simple and flexible. The goal is for everyone to enjoy the creative process, not to worry about producing a ‘perfect’ painting. You might set a time limit – say, 30 minutes to an hour – or let everyone take their time. For an added festive twist, allow participants to include Christmas elements, like a Santa hat, reindeer antlers, or a snow-covered background!
A few fun rule ideas:
Age-based categories (younger children, teens, adults) to make it fair for everyone.
Style themes such as ‘cartoon,’ ‘abstract,’ or ‘festive costume’.
Mixed-media entries if someone wants to add collage or glitter!
4. Make Judging a Family Affair
When all the masterpieces are complete, it’s time for the ‘exhibition’ and judging! Each person can display their artwork for everyone to admire. To make things even more festive, consider creating mini trophies or certificates for different categories, like ‘Most Creative,’ ‘Best Likeness,’ and ‘Funniest’. You could even ask a family friend to serve as an impartial judge if you’d prefer!
5. Share the Festive Joy – and the Laughs
Once you’ve crowned the winner, don’t let the fun stop there! Share photos of everyone’s paintings on social media, or even make copies to send in Christmas cards to family and friends. If you’re feeling particularly creative, you could even use a photo-editing app to turn your artwork into a digital Christmas card that features your family’s artistic pet portraits. It’s a fun way to spread the holiday cheer and showcase your family’s unique talents.
6. Keep the Spirit Alive All Season Long
After the competition, hang the artworks up around the house for the rest of the holiday season. There’s something heartwarming about seeing everyone’s interpretations of your family pet adorning the walls. Plus, it’s a lovely reminder of the special family time you spent together.
A family pet painting competition is a simple, cost-effective way to bring everyone together in the spirit of Christmas. It’s a chance to create lasting memories, laugh together, and maybe even discover a hidden artistic talent or two!
This Christmas, let your pets be the muse and your home be the gallery. Here’s to festive fun, family bonding, and a season filled with love and laughter!