Creativity and Visual Thinking in Educational Contexts
Creative visual thinking
Participants are introduced to the fundamentals of visual thinking and creative problem-solving through simple drawing-based exercises. The session starts with quick warm-up activities to break the fear of drawing and encourage spontaneous thinking. Attendees are then guided through…
Workshop
Description
Participants are introduced to the fundamentals of visual thinking and creative problem-solving through simple drawing-based exercises.
The session starts with quick warm-up activities to break the fear of drawing and encourage spontaneous thinking. Attendees are then guided through techniques to translate ideas into simple visual representations (icons, diagrams, compositions).
This is followed by individual and group exercises where participants apply these techniques to real-life scenarios, such as mapping ideas, structuring thoughts, or visually communicating concepts.
The session ends with a short collaborative activity where participants co-create a visual output as a team.
No drawing skills are required — the focus is on clarity of thinking, not artistic ability.
Benefits
– Improves clarity of communication and idea-sharing
– Enhances creative problem-solving
– Strengthens team collaboration and alignment
– Builds confidence in presenting ideas
– Encourages innovative thinking in professional contexts
– Increases engagement during meetings and brainstorming
Hosted by Ana Margarida Pires
About the Host
I am a visual artist, illustrator, and art educator based in Portugal, working at the intersection of creativity, emotional expression, and learning. My practice combines artistic exploration with structured methodologies, allowing me to translate creative processes into practical tools that can be applied in educational, personal, and professional contexts.
Alongside my artistic work, I teach and design workshops focused on creativity, visual thinking, and emotional awareness through art. My approach is hands-on, inclusive, and accessible to all levels, including participants with no prior artistic experience. I create environments where people feel safe to experiment, take risks, and reconnect with their creative instincts.
My work is grounded in the belief that creativity is not a talent reserved for a few, but a fundamental human skill that can support problem-solving, communication, and well-being. In my sessions, I use drawing, painting, and mixed media as tools to unlock new ways of thinking, encourage collaboration, and support emotional regulation.
I have experience working with diverse groups, including children, adults, and multidisciplinary teams, and I am currently developing projects that bridge art, education, and well-being, such as creative workshops, illustrated publications, and community-based initiatives.
Through my work, I aim to bring clarity, playfulness, and depth into creative processes, helping individuals and teams move beyond perfectionism, reconnect with their intuition, and explore new perspectives.
Travel Locations
Portugal (nationwide)
– Greater Lisbon Area (+€50 travel fee)
– Up to 200KM from Lisbon (+€100 travel fee)
– 300KM or more from Lisbon (+€150 travel fee)
Certifications & Credentials
Master’s student in Artistic Education (Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Lisbon)
Certified Teacher of Visual Arts and Technology (ESE – Polytechnic Institute of Setúbal)
Certified Trainer & Training Coordinator (CCP) – Portugal
Certified Digital learning content creation (IEFP)
I combine formal academic training in art education with an active professional practice as an artist and workshop facilitator.
Client Requirements
For in-person sessions, I require a comfortable workspace with tables and chairs for participants, good natural or artificial lighting, and access to water (for painting-based activities). Depending on the group size, a whiteboard or flipchart is helpful but not essential. Materials can either be provided by the client (based on a list shared in advance) or supplied by me for an additional fee. For online sessions, I require a stable internet connection, a camera-enabled device, and basic drawing materials (paper, pens, or paints).
Focus Areas
Location
Sesimbra, Portugal
Languages
English, Portuguese
Corporate Experience
Moderate
Session Types Offered
Interactive (eg. improv, group-art, yoga etc.)
Past Experience Doing Sessions
Yes - Interactive
Past Clients
IKEA Portugal, Quadrimóvel SA
Photo Gallery