Introduction

The visual arts tell us stories. The way that artists tell us those stories happens in many different ways, just as the stories that we “see” vary depending on who we are, and what information that we have available to us.

Here are four examples of elements that could be combined to shape a story for you in an art gallery space-

the title of the exhibit
the materials that the artists uses to create the objects
the themes present
and gallery space itself

These are all clues or pieces to the visual story. In addition, you bring your own story to the space. The story that you leave with is a combination of what you already know and feel, and the new story you have just been told.

Class Discussion:

What is the difference between telling a story directly and telling one indirectly? How are visual stories told in indirect ways? A helpful way to think of this might be discussing the difference between how something can suggest a story instead of tell a story.

Why would an artist choose to suggest something, or communicate using metaphors and symbols instead of just saying something directly?
Think about how it feels different to you as a listener when someone tells you a story while you listen quietly vs. what it feels like to piece together a story with someone through an action or conversation. Consider stories that have multiple versions.