Abstract

Why do we hold onto certain objects? What stories are embedded within these objects? In what ways do these objects tell the stories of our lives, the relationships we form, and the lessons we learn? This visual essay reveals the unexpected meaning and discoveries I made as I used visual and narrative methods to explore the artifacts of my teaching life and the stories embedded within. Using a combination of drawings from my visual journal and written narrative, I examine three objects which hold vivid stories that exemplify the richness of my teaching experiences. I visually and verbally highlight instances where these stories crossed and connected, and the lessons I learned along the way. The narrative that emerged reveals how objects carry the memories and stories that define and illustrate our own histories, identities, and values, while also unlocking the ways we are connected. 

Keywords: Objects, Narrative Methods, Visual Methods, Visual Journal, Teaching Experiences

How to Cite:

Kulinski, A. R., (2024) “The Stories Objects Carry”, Journal of Cultural Research in Art Education 41(1), 181-202. doi: https://doi.org/10.2458/jcrae.5862