Things You'll Need:
- Pictograph dictionary
- Pencil
- Paper
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Step 1
Use a Native American pictograph dictionary to select the images you will need for your pictograph story. Try a bookstore or the library for a book detailing the art of Native American storytelling through pictures. Ensure the book includes a dictionary of Native American images and what they mean. You can also use a free pictograph dictionary online (see Resources) that will give you all the images you need to tell your story.
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Step 2
Determine the story you want to tell. Make an outline of the key points of your story. Since you aren't using words, you don't have the luxury of a lot of added detail. A Native American pictograph tells a story in a concise fashion, using drawings to illustrate only the key movements of a story. Outlining your story ahead of time will make it easier for you to see the actions you want to illustrate in the story to make it as clear as possible. Consider using a yellow highlighter to highlight the main actions of your story.
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Step 3
Select the images you will use to tell your story. Use as many as you want, but don't overdo it. Select only the images that will show distinct movement. Draw the first image in the center of your paper using a pencil or pen. Place your second image just under and to the left of the first. A pictograph moves counter clockwise and forms an ever-widening spiral. Between 15 and 20 drawings should ideally tell your story. Don't worry about being an artist. Your images should look primitive for authenticity. A simple triangle represents a tipi. All of the images in Native American pictography are like this--simple and direct.
