What story will you tell?
Object Stories run the gamut from funny and goofy to the heartbreakingly profound, and everything in between. A typical Object Stories session lasts approximately twenty minutes with produced stories edited down to around two minutes.
You need to make a reservation to record a story. Recording an Object Story requires no additional payment other than the cost of Museum admission. Please arrive a few minutes before you are scheduled to ensure that your session begins in a timely manner.
What should I do to prepare?
To prepare for your recording, choose your object and think about why you chose it. Ask yourself: What do I want to say about this object? What details will help my listeners understand my object or my story? Remember that good stories are ones that paint pictures for your listener. Please bring your object (or a picture of your object if it is too large) to the Museum; you and the object will be photographed in our booth. Inside the booth, you will be given a series of prompts designed to bring out your story in full detail. You will also be asked to electronically “tag” your story as well as provide a “six word story” that describes what your object means to you.
What do I do when I get to the Museum?
Let a staff person know you are ready for your Object Story session. They will alert an Object Story Guide. Your guide will introduce you to the recording process and will be available to help you while you record if needed.
Can I talk about any object I want?
You can talk about virtually any object as long as it meets with the regulations regarding what you can and cannot physically bring into the Museum. In these instances, feel free to bring an image of the object you would like to talk about.
Can I come alone?
You can come alone or with family and friends. You are welcome to tell your story individually or with another person.
How many people can I bring to my interview?
The booth can fit up to two adults and one child.
Will anybody be there to help me with the interview?
Yes, a volunteer will guide you to the booth and will be available to answer any questions you may have about the process.
Can I read something during my recording?
You are welcome to read text that is related to your object or your own writing about the object if you wish to. However, Object Stories need not be scripted. The booth will prompt you with questions designed to help you organize your thoughts.
Can I bring my child/grandchild?
Children may accompany you in the booth under your supervision. We accept Object Stories from any age group. Unfortunately, we do not offer care taking for your children or grandchildren while you record your story.
Can recording sessions be conducted and recorded in any language?
The booth offers English and Spanish language options.
Is the Object Stories booth handicap-accessible?
Yes. The Object Stories Booth is ADA compliant and can accommodate most wheelchairs and mobility devices.
When I am finished recording my story can I visit the Museum galleries?
Of course! If you choose to stroll the galleries, please check your items at either entrance. To check an item it must be no larger than 2 feet in any direction and weigh less than 25 pounds. This is to be sure that your object will fit safely in our coat check areas. Objects cannot be brought into the galleries without a Museum guide.
What if I have questions or concerns about the story I recorded?
Please send an email to objectstories@pam.org; someone will respond to your email as soon as possible.
What is the Object Stories Booth? How does it work?
Object Stories provides the unique opportunity to share your own story about an object—anyobject—that is significant to you. All are welcome to participate. Stories are recorded in an interactive booth located inside the Portland Art Museum. The booth prompts storytellers by asking the following questions:
Object Story recording booth prompts
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1. Discovery
When and how did you first receive or encounter the object?
What was your first impression of it?
Who was there?
2. Meaning
Did you know it was significant from the beginning?
How did your object gain meaning?
Has its meaning changed over time?
3. Value
What does the object say about you?
What event or person taught you the importance of this object?
4. Reward
What is the best reward of owning your object?
5. Conclusion
If you had to give it to someone, who would that be and what would you say to them?
6. Description
Before we take pictures, please describe your object.
What does it look like?
What does it feel like?
What does it smell like?