“The Gossips,” by Tracey Maras, pastel.
By Tracey Maras
Excerpt from Pastel Journal, Fall 2026
The origins of art are rooted in the concept of storytelling. Whether through the depiction of scenes, figures, or symbols, art serves as a form of communication – with artists as the storytellers.
For many artists, though, especially those in the early stages of their practice, creating a story with their artwork may not be their first thought. Their initial focus is often on mastering the fundamentals, such as drawing accurately, understanding materials, and experimenting with different techniques. Much like mastering artistic tools and processes, developing the ability to become a storyteller is itself a learned skill.
A Storytelling Exercise
It was through my own journey as an artist and instructor that a path towards becoming a storyteller presented itself rather unexpectedly. Many artists create the ubiquitous painting or drawing of a pear at some point in their journey.
Since there are pear trees outside the studio where I teach, I gathered an armful of fruit, carried it into the studio, and then placed the pears on a table. While setting up several vignettes from which the students could take photos, sketch, or paint, I noticed that it almost seemed that the pears were interacting with one another and assuming personalities. It was then that I realized that storytelling is not limited to the literal portrayal of a narrative.
From Mere Objects to Characters
Traditionally, human figures have been used to tell stories through their interactions and expressions. It’s a natural extension of this idea to use other living creatures in artwork for the same purpose. In reality, however, anything can serve as a vehicle for storytelling – whether animate or inanimate.
Objects become more than mere things. They become characters within the narrative – with you as the storyteller.
For the full article, this edition of the Pastel Journal is available through www.artistsnetwork.com.
“Mom, Mom, Mom,” by Tracey Maras, pastel.
Tracey Maras is a bi-monthly contributor to the newsletter and blog. She is a Signature Member at HAC. Currently, her work is on display as part of the gallery’s Solo Series.