Artist Statements
Writing an artist statement is crucial in presenting your work to the public, galleries, or potential buyers. An artist statement provides insight into your artistic practice, influences, and the meaning behind your work. Here's a guide on how to write an effective artist statement:
1. Understand Your Art
Reflect on your artwork and identify recurring themes, concepts, or techniques. Consider the emotions, ideas, or messages you aim to convey through your art.
2. Define Your Intentions
Clarify your artistic intentions. What do you want to achieve with your art? What do you hope viewers will take away from experiencing your work?
3. Know Your Audience
Consider who will be reading your statement. Tailor your language to be accessible to a broad audience while still conveying the depth of your artistic practice.
4. Structure Your Statement
Introduction
Begin with a compelling and concise introduction that grabs the reader's attention.
Mention your name and a brief overview of your artistic focus.
Body
Elaborate on your artistic process, influences, and themes. Discuss your techniques, materials, and the concepts that drive your work.
Share any unique experiences, events, or personal history that have shaped your artistic journey.
Be specific and avoid using vague or overly complex language.
Conclusion
Summarise your key points.
End with a statement that ties your work together and leaves a lasting impression.
5. Be Authentic
Write in your own voice. Authenticity is key in connecting with your audience.
Avoid using jargon unless it's necessary for your specific audience.
6. Edit and Refine
Keep your statement concise and focused. Aim for clarity and avoid unnecessary details.
Edit for grammar and clarity. Ask for feedback from friends and other artists. Non-arty friends are a great insight into how the broader public will interpret your statement.
7. Consider Your Artwork
Reference specific pieces of your artwork in your statement. Explain how they relate to the themes and concepts you've discussed.
8. Keep It Updated
Regularly revisit and update your artist statement as your work evolves. A current statement helps maintain relevance. I also like to archive my artist statements for each work I create.
9. Examples and Inspirations
Read artist statements from other artists for inspiration, but ensure your statement remains true to your unique voice and perspective. I often take records of good artist statements I see and then go back to reference why I liked them and what language they used.
10. Professional Tone
Maintain a professional tone throughout your statement. Even if your work is avant-garde, your statement should still be articulate and well-crafted.
11. Additional Elements
If applicable, consider including information about your artistic education, exhibitions, awards, or any relevant achievements. This depends on the context of the situation.
Remember that your artist statement is a dynamic document. As your artistic practice evolves, so should your statement. Regularly revisit and update it to accurately reflect your current work and perspectives.
