Why might fables or popular stories appeal to an artist as inspiration for an artwork?

What strategies might an artist use to convey a narrative?

How have fables and folktales helped shape people's understanding of history and national identity?

How can an artwork influence or alter our understanding of a fable or folktale?

Grades 4–8

Activity 1
We know that in this work of art, Grant Wood is representing the moral of honesty through Parson Weems’ American fable of George Washington and the Cherry Tree. Students should consider other morals that we try to uphold as Americans. This could be loyalty, bravery, patience, knowledge, support, independence, acceptance, or something else. Students will draw curtains to create a stage for their artwork, just as Grant Wood painted. Then, they will sketch a representation of the moral that is most important to them.

Activity 2
Students will explore narrative from the role of narrator—the one pulling back the curtains to reveal a story about an individual. Students should consider:

• Who will be the star on their stage?
• Whose story should be told and known by the public?
• What lesson, idea, or skill has this person taught?
• What action will be taking place on the stage?
• What will be in the background?

Students can sketch a pair of curtains. In between the curtains they can write the following headings: “Who,” “Action,” and “Background.” They should be sure to leave space in between the headings. For “Who,” write down who is the central figure of your story and explain why you selected this individual. For “Action” write down two to three sentences describing what action will take place on your stage. For “Background” give a detailed description of what will be in the background.

All Levels

Students will use a stencil to make an outline of a star. Next they will consider “simple, everyday things” to include in a patriotic artwork. Using blue and red markers, students will list those things inside and/or outside of the star.