Biodiversity Photo Contest
Purpose
To foster observation, reflection, and connection with biodiversity through creative engagement. This method encourages participants to slow-down, notice overlooked details and explore their relationship with nature through drawing – regardless of artistic skill. It supports mindfulness, emotional expression, and ecological awareness.
Key Features
Participants:
- Ideal group size: 4–12
- Suitable for age 12+
- Can be adapted for silent reflection or verbal discussion
Estimated Timeframe:
- Typically 2–3 hours
- Can be extended across multiple sessions or integrated into events
Budget Level:
- Low to Medium
- Costs may include art materials, facilitator time, venue hire and accessibility support
Materials Needed:
- Outdoor or indoor nature-rich location
- Seating and workspace (tables, boards, clipboards)
- Weather protection (gazebos, umbrellas)
- Art supplies: pencils, pens, paints, paper
- Institutionally approved ethical information and consent forms (if collecting data)
- Optional: natural materials for eco-printing or rubbings
Skills Required:
- Group facilitation and inclusive communication
- Basic familiarity with drawing techniques
- Emotional sensitivity and adaptability
- Workshop planning and logistics
- Adaptability and ethical awareness
- Optional: artistic or ecological expertise
Case Study
Method in Practice
Context of Use
Used in the PLANET4B Hungarian case study on agrobiodiversity. Participants explored a farm, selected natural elements to draw, and engaged in reflective dialogue. The method was also used during a project partner gathering to slow the pace and deepen reflection.
How It Worked
Participants began by drawing something they liked, then repeated short drawing exercises with varied prompts (e.g. something overlooked, decaying, or shaped by humans). Sharing and discussion followed each round, with options for quiet reflection. The workshop closed with a group dialogue on insights and emotional responses.
Engagement & Participation
Participants engaged through observation, drawing, and storytelling. The method supported diverse forms of expression and could be adapted for different comfort levels. Facilitators guided reflection and created a safe, non-judgmental space.
Outcomes & Insights:
- Heightened sensory awareness and mindfulness
- Emotional connection to biodiversity
- Strengthened group cohesion and communication
- Inspired sustainable behaviours and ecological curiosity
- Provided a creative, inclusive entry point into environmental dialogue
Strengths & Considerations
Strengths:
- Accessible to all skill levels
- Supports emotional and sensory engagement
- Encourages reflection and ecological awareness
- Adaptable to diverse settings and themes
- Can complement scientific or policy work with creative insight
Considerations:
- Requires thoughtful facilitation and emotional care
- Weather and accessibility must be planned for
- Some participants may prefer alternative formats
- Impact depends on follow-up and integration into wider engagement
- Consent and ethical clarity needed if used for research
