Collaborative painting at networking business conferences

1 day ago
2 min read

Updated: 6 hours ago

What happens when you put a gaggle (that's the collective term right?) of entrepreneurs in a room together? Chats, shared ideas and problems - all the good stuff. But there's also many people who need moments of quiet, creative moments, things to do that help with the chats and connection.

I'm one of those - at these big conferences I'm not comfortable approaching groups I don't know and just sparking conversation. Networking is invaluable but also tough.

You Are The Media held their annual Creator Day in May 2026 at The Lighthouse in Poole. A few energetic days that combined a sea dip, talks, sharing, a safe place to grow and connect. The vibe was honestly so engaging and welcoming - but alongside these fabulous people there were a few thoughtful activities that made the event special.

I'm proud to say that one of the activities was run by us, Make Your Mark Events. A large collaborative painting inspired by the YATM logo and Poole.

The logo was divided into sections for the guests to fill in.

They could fill with whatever they wanted - some opted for painted textures and patterns, some opted to paint scenes, some opted to paint to represent themselves, their business or their message.

Filling in the YATM logo - a visual sum of everyone there - because without it's people the networking group would be nothing.

Artists were invited to add their names to the back so connections could be made post event too.

Key benefits

wonderful photo and content opportunites
conversations at and away from the painting - a shared experience
moments of quiet and creativity
an opportunity to leave their mark on something - their brand, their passions
the message that we part of a bigger picture and supported by who we surround ourselves with