Crafting Compelling Backstories for Art Projects

The other day, I was chatting with my friend HL Natalya Vasilova, from the Barony of Mag Mor. We were talking about the amazing handcarved ball she was making. It’s one of her latest arts and sciences competition pieces. She mentioned the ‘backstory’ for it. Her projects’ backstories are something I’ve always admired in her work but never explored. Back at home, her words stuck with me. What does she mean by a backstory, and why is it such an important part of her process? Naturally, my curiosity got the best of me, and I started digging a little deeper.

I began reflecting on my own projects. I realized how fulfilling it is to imagine the lives of the people from the past. These people might have used or created these objects. This curiosity is likely what sparked my series on the daily life of my persona Jehanne Bening in 15th-century Bruges.

Exploring the details is fascinating. I did this in 2000 (before digitized art) to find the prayer for this entry. its details completely shaped the way I approached this project. The details added layers of meaning and depth to what I created.

In the world of material culture, a backstory isn’t just about an object’s physical features. It’s about uncovering its history. It also involves the context that surrounds the object. It’s like telling the life story of an artifact.

The backstory helps us understand how an item was made. We learn how it was used and valued by the people of its time. For example, a spinning wheel isn’t just a tool for making thread. Its backstory might include the craftspeople who made it. It could also tell about the families who used it. Additionally, it covers the technological or fashion changes that influenced its design over time.

If you want to bring more depth to your own creations, crafting a backstory is a great way to start. Ask yourself: Who would have used this item? How would it fit into their daily life? What stories could it tell? Whether it’s a simple spoon or a detailed piece of jewelry, each object holds a unique narrative. It is waiting to be uncovered. A solid backstory might cover:

• Historical Context: Where and when was the item used?
• Craftsmanship: Who made it, and what materials or techniques were involved?
• Ownership: Who might have owned it—a noble, merchant, or commoner?
• Usage: How was it used—daily, ceremonially, or for specific tasks?
• Anecdotes: Are there any interesting stories tied to it?
• Journey: Did the item change hands or travel across regions?

Imagine a sword passed down through generations. Its backstory might include the name of the maker and the original owner. It might also reveal the battles it saw, with each scratch telling a tale. Or consider a piece of jewelry. It could reveal who commissioned it. It might show where the gems were sourced and how it fit into the evolving fashions of the time. This is what brings history to life through these objects.

If you’re thinking of creating a backstory for your next project, here are some questions to get you started:

• What’s the item’s origin—where and when was it made?
• Who made it? What do we know about the workshop or craftsperson?
• What materials and methods were used in its creation?
• Who owned it? Was it someone of importance or specific social standing?
• How was it used—daily, ceremonially, or both?
• Was it involved in any significant historical events?
• What signs of wear or repair does it show?
• How did it travel through time? Did it change owners or locations?
• What made it valuable enough to preserve or discard?

Creating a backstory not only adds authenticity to our work. It also helps us connect with the historical figures we aim to emulate. It’s a powerful way to bring history to life, both for ourselves and for those who experience our projects.

Now I’m curious—do you craft backstories for your own items? How do they shape your connection to the past? I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!