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An Artist Statement is a brief statement which tells us about the art.
- It’s about your art, not about you.
- It’s about the current direction of your work, not a history of how you got to this point
- An explanation of your style, approach, philosophy, subject and/or theme
- A statement of your intention through your work
- A moving testament to your creativity and integrity
It can be for a particular artwork, a particular exhibition of work or an overall statement about your body of work in general. The purpose of the statement is to clarify and add to our understanding. It should be written in the 1st person and be 50- 150 words maximum.
Types of Artist Statements
You and your body of work
General overview, approach, style, themes, media
You and an exhibition of work
Ideas, themes, media about an exhibition
You and a particular work
Specific idea, theme, media
Writing an Artist Statement
Step 1
- Take five minutes and think about why you do what you do
- Why do you like to make art?
- What subjects/themes do you prefer? Why?
- What processes and techniques do you use? Why?
- What are your goals and aspirations as an artist?
- Who or what inspires you?
- Make a list of words and phrases
- Write five sentences that tell the truth about your connection to your work
Step 2
Write a three paragraph artist’s statement First paragraph:
- Who are you
- What is your work about
- Why do you do the work you do
Second paragraph:
- Preferred medium, techniques themes
Third paragraph:
- What are you exploring, attempting, challenging through your work
As well as explaining your main idea and approach to the work, the statement should also demonstrate a personal style inquiry; what the work means to the artist and their personal experience.
