Visual Arts as a Narrative Technique
Since the beginning of human kind, we have been using pictures as a way of communicating. From cave painting to hieroglyphs, visual communication can convey ideas in a way that words can't
Visual art, in its myriad forms, serves as a universal language. Art interpretation transcends the barriers of culture and language, offering a unique medium through which artists convey their stories. Visual art possesses the remarkable ability to communicate complex ideas, evoke emotions, and leave an indelible mark on the viewer’s soul. (Kristel. 2023)
From the intricate cave paintings of Lascaux, dating back over 17,000 years, to contemporary digital art installations, the narrative aspect of visual art has remained a constant thread, binding generations and civilizations.
One of the most captivating aspects of storytelling art is its openness to interpretation. Each viewer brings their unique experiences, beliefs, and emotions to the artwork.
Artists utilize symbols, colors, composition, and even the absence of elements to craft narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.
It (narrative art) captures the essence of a time, place, or society, evoking nostalgia, provoking critical thought, or reflecting the realities of our world.
It (art) allows us to explore the intricate interplay of life’s dualities through the canvas. In this dance between the vivid and the restrained, we find the means to express the full spectrum of emotions and perspectives.
As we explore the narratives within visual art, we discover not only the stories that artists tell but also the stories that we carry within us, forever intertwined with the art we cherish.
A key point of the article is the idea that art transcends languages meaning that anyone can look at it and find some kind of meaning. Whether it be intentional from the artist of a viewers own interpretation, all art if trying to say something. As a communication style, art can evoke deep emotions/feelings that someone might not be able to accurately dictate through words. As words change throughout time and between cultures, non-verbal forms of communication remains consistent allowing for stories to be passed to people all over the world.
This article does a great job at providing examples of art pieces that are not only literal but also communicate ideas through abstract and symbolic ways. Color, shapes, composition, symbols are only a few of the many ways an artist can portray a narrative. And any combination of these elements can turn one piece into a myriad of ideas making art the most versatile form on storytelling.
References
Kristal. A. (Nov 26, 2023). The Art of Storytelling: Narratives in Visual Art. Medium. https://atelierkristel.medium.com/the-art-of-storytelling-narratives-in-visual-art-7533af9fc320
Britannica (2025, September 27). Ancient Egypt. In Encyclopaedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Egypt
