Cycloramas for Storytelling

Sample prepared by FWM Education. Photo credit: FWM Visual Archives.

To create the illusion of sky, space, and story, artist Kara Walker employs antebellum artforms like silhouettes, magic lanterns, and cycloramas—a curved, seamless backdrop used in theater or film to create a panoramic view.  Through colorful light and wandering shadows, Walker enlivens the work’s environment and creates a play between dimensions, history, and imagination.

Consider a story that you would like to shine a light upon and create your own personal cycloramas using screenprinting, colored gels, mylar, and drawing tools.