The Dream Drawing Game
When we portray a dream in a drawing, our hands will often reveal some of the meaning of the dream.
A picture is worth a thousand words.
This technique is based
on the work of Henry Reed.
1. Each person draws a picture of their
dream without letting the other group members see the picture. Use colored pencils or crayons. Draw a single
picture that represents your dream, not a series of cartoon frames. Free yourself from focusing on your ability to draw.
The picture can be a detailed drawing or an abstract expression of the dream.
2. Collect the dream pictures from the group and place them face down in the middle
of the group. Each person picks someone else's drawing without knowing who created
the drawing.
3. Each person makes up a story
about the drawing. The object is not to guess what the dream is about. Instead, the purpose is to enter
the drawing with imagination and emerge with a story that fits the drawing. Each person contemplates the drawing before
telling the story. Include the following in the story: (1) What is going on here? (2) What are
the people, animal, or things feeling and thinking? (3) What led up to the present situation? (4)
How does it all work out?
4. Other people
in the group also comment on the picture. Again, the group members are telling a story, not guessing the dream.
5. When the story and comments are complete,
the dreamer is revealed and gives a reaction to the feedback. The dreamer shares insights gained from the storytelling.
What action does the dreamer want to take based on the understanding of your dream?
Drawing by Yourself
Everyday for a week portray your dreams in a drawing. Over time you may see connections in your
dream pictures (moods, attitudes, etc.). When you look back at your dream pictures after some time has passed, you may
be surprised at what you now see in your dream pictures.
