The Story Behind the Art

Anything related to marketing or sharing art says we must have a story to be relatable to the intended audience. Therein lies the problem. Where does the story come from? Am I supposed to make it up as I create the artwork, or do I have to know the story before putting paint to paper? Should it be earth shattering and make people feel so deeply that they are carried away by emotion?

I’ve had a revelation!

The story doesn’t have to be grandiose. It can be as simple as what inspired you to create a painting or series. The other night my husband and I discussed this very topic. I was having trouble coming up with a story about my art. He asked questions that helped me break down my thought process. After doing this, I recognized that I had a story for my artwork along. It wasn’t mind blowing, but it was true. It was my story.

So, how do you find your story?

Inspiration

First, ask what your inspiration was for making the piece. Here’s an example of what helped me formulate the story behind the Wilderness Series.

When looking at Henri Rousseau’s paintings, I was struck by the denseness of his jungles. The proportions weren’t always correct, but it was interesting and kept the eye moving. I wanted to translate the fullness of the jungle into my paintings. The Wilderness Series looks nothing like Rousseau’s paintings, but they gave me a jumping off point. I made it my own.

The feeling of the wilderness engulfing the viewer is my intent. You are unable to tell which way is up, down, or sideways. This is the story.

Emotion

If this doesn’t work for you, then consider asking: what were you going through in your life when making the artwork? Were you dealing with a certain emotion or life event? This can be a catalyst for your story.

Some people create to let out emotions. It’s an expression of who you are, and that can translate into your artwork’s story. Put your emotions to work and use them to connect with your audience on a deeper level.

Intuitive

Most of the time, intuitive painters don’t know the story of their art until after it’s completed and analyzed. You grab the paint and brushes when something inside of you is drawn to paint. You may not realize it at the time, but there is something within driving you. Intuitive artist shouldn’t worry about the story behind the art while creating. It will only frustrate you during the process. Give into your intuition, and make art.

After you have finished the artwork, set it aside for a few days. You will need fresh eyes to see the story that is associated with the artwork. Sometimes, you will need to finish a series before you discover the story. Revisit the artwork and think back to what you were doing, seeing, feeling, and learning about during the creative process. Asking these questions will reveal the story of making your artwork.

Final Thoughts

Don’t pressure yourself to come up with a grand story. It’s the little things in life that we hold dear. Let it happen in its own time. Forcing a piece of artwork to have a story, is a terrible feeling. If you love the color of the painting, then that is the story. Enjoy the process and let inspiration flow from you to the artwork.

Hope this helps you discover the storyteller within.

Amanda