Telling Tales : Stories in Art
Artventure Series
What’s inside...
This book explores how artists convey stories through still images by examining a variety of works from artists like Giordano, Gentileschi, Martineau, and others. It encourages readers to think about the artists' techniques and intentions by pointing out details and posing questions. The book includes background information on artists and their works, a glossary, and an index, making it ideal for curriculum work for readers aged 9-12. The series brings art to life by exploring techniques artists use to express relationships, show action, and more, with many works of art from ancient to contemporary times.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What emotions do you feel when you look at the different artworks in the book?
Which story told by a piece of art is your favorite and why?
How do you think the artists felt when they were creating these artworks?
What new things did you learn from this book about art and stories?
If you could create your own artwork, what story would it tell?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before discussing a specific piece of art, encourage your child to describe what they see in the image; this invites them to look closer and think critically.
Relate the stories and emotions depicted in the artwork to experiences your child may have had to deepen their personal connection.
Ask your child to imagine being inside the artwork’s story—what role would they play, and how would they interact with other characters?
Encourage your child to draw their own picture inspired by their favorite artwork from the book, discussing the stories they want to convey through their art.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through diverse stories depicted in art, children learn to understand and empathize with experiences and emotions of others from different cultures and time periods.
Real-World Application: Children can apply empathy in their everyday interactions, enhancing their ability to connect with classmates and friends from various backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Interpretation
Explanation: The book encourages children to analyze and interpret various artworks and the stories they represent, fostering critical thinking skills.
Real-World Application: This skill can be used in school subjects like literature and social studies, helping children to construct well-thought-out opinions and perspectives.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Expression
Explanation: By viewing how stories are expressed uniquely through art, children are inspired to explore their own creative expression whether in art, writing, or other forms of storytelling.
Real-World Application: Children learn to express themselves more effectively in their everyday life, boosting their confidence and personal identity.
Example Lesson: Historical Knowledge
Explanation: Art pieces in the book serve as historical artifacts, providing visual stories from different times, and helping children to grasp historical concepts and contexts.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps children understand the present by linking it to the past, and aids in the development of a well-rounded worldview.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Diversity
Explanation: ‘Telling Tales: Stories in Art’ showcases art from various artists around the world, teaching children to appreciate artistic diversity and cultural richness.
Real-World Application: Fostering an appreciation for diversity prepares children for a global society, enabling them to respect and value different perspectives and contributions.