Narrative Elements in the Landscape

Written By Catherine Sky

Can a landscape painting express a narrative?

This question is at the center of my research as I work with kids in finding stories in nature.

My painting from the series, She Loved This Place, is interesting to consider in light of this question.

Some things to consider:

  • Multiple perspectives - is the process of looking, in itself, a story?

  • Looking down on the valley recalls the experience of moving through that space in daily activities.

  • Geologic history is implied by the landforms - hills and valleys- and the processes that created them.

  • The cultural significance of Sonoma Mountain

What if there were figures in the painting? - People walking, animals, specific plants?

Catherine Sky
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