Phoenix Sixth-Graders Experience the Magic of Storytelling Through Art

Sixth-grade students at Emerson J. Dillon Middle School were recently captivated by the fusion of storytelling and face painting during a live performance of StoryFaces by renowned artist and performer Christopher Agostino.
The presentation brought together traditional tales, original stories, and visual artistry in a high-energy performance that kept students engaged. As Agostino painted bold designs on students’ faces in real time, he narrated powerful stories from a variety of cultures — demonstrating how the art of storytelling connects people across time and place.
“This was more than just a performance,” said art teacher Beth Pritchard. “It was an immersive experience that introduced our students to cultural traditions, visual art, and the power of live narrative. It connects to our curriculum across the board.”
StoryFaces is designed to inspire students to embrace their own creativity and explore storytelling as a form of self-expression. Agostino, who has performed at venues around the world, also emphasized themes of character, identity, and imagination — making the presentation not only entertaining, but educational and thought-provoking.