The Artist's Statement
Episode 9: Word Play: Writing the Perfect Artist’s Statement
Writing an artist’s statement comes with the territory, but how do you do it well? In this episode Laura and Peter explore just what should go into a good statement, why you need one and what it does for you.
An artist statement’s job is to establish the what and why of your work. It documents your journey, current focus and the ways in which your work is moving forward. It is the insight into your working practice. Artist statements are not to be confused with a CV or Biography. A CV is a timeline of relevant achievements and milestones. A biography is about you: where you come from, who you are and gives people your back story. However, all three share two characteristics; they need tailoring to fit wherever they are being used and updating regularly.
In this episode…
Do you research and check out artist statements by fellow artists working in the same field and see which ones resonate with you and why. Chances are the honest, simple and straightforward ones will be the most attractive.
Writing the statement and keeping it up to date will make you think more clearly about your practice so see it as a win-win, not a chore.
Write several versions of your statement in differing lengths (Peter and Laura implore you to keep the longest version down to about 500 words). Always get your statement checked for mistakes.
Put your statement on your website and make it available. Remember to edit and change it as your work moves on. A disconnect between your work and your statement is a real no-no.
Take Aways…
Every artist needs to write an artist’s statement. Write one and keep it up short, honest and up to date!
Those keen to ignore Peter and Laura’s sound advice on brevity and simplicity should check out this helpful tool https://www.artybollocks.com/ immediately.
