We consume images everyday, often unintentionally or by chance. But this visual information nonetheless shapes our lives, culture, and expression. These Fall Festival programs explore some of the cultural implications of visual arts and storytelling:

Discussion prompts

• How do visual representations of people and cultures influence the stories we tell?
• Why and how have we given colors meaning?
• How does visual information shape how we interact with communities?
• How has American culture influenced the Marvel world?
• After listening to David Scott Kasten, has your favorite color changed?

Suggested Activity

Communities come in all shapes and sizes. Create a welcome sign for your community–what would it look like? What colors, words, shapes, and images would you choose and why? What feelings would you want the sign to communicate?

Further Reading

How I use comic books as a learning tool in my social studies classroom

The histories of ten colors through multiple lenses

Teens are spending the summer making Block Club Signs for Chicago Streets

Video: Local artist turns sore spot into the pride of the neighborhood

Teachers can purchase tickets to any event at a discounted price. And this season, youth can attend select programs for just $5 using the Teen Arts Pass. For more information about tickets please call the box office at (312) 605-8444.

PS – We’d love to hear from you! Please share with usyour thoughts about these resources and your experiences using them!