When telling stories in a museum setting, I often begin the program by exploring the artwork through the strategy of Visual Thinking, as developed by Abigail Housen and Philip Yenawine.  Far from passive lectures, these lively discussions encourage viewers to establish a personal connection with the art: sharing their opinions and considering the ideas of others in the group.  As a prologue to storytelling, the conversations prepare listeners to reflect on how the stories and the art illuminate one another. By actively engaging in a response to the artwork and the story, my audiences may broaden their perceptions and enrich the experience of their museum visit. x