Creating a 'Body of Work'
Episode 45: Producing a Body of Work
'A Body of Work'... One of those expressions that pops up in art contexts all the time. Laura and Peter unpick what it means. It can be whatever you want it to be. A group of pieces linked thematically, stylistically, chromatically, progressively or anything else. A collection that will allow you to be assessed maybe, by a gallery or a prospective client. Certainly a way of showing your exploration of your work - and that has to be a good thing!
The Useful Stuff
1. Bodies of work should be seen as specific projects within your working style; remember to stay consistent to your artistic voice. Random unconnected forays into novel projects with no relation to your usual work are unlikely to help cement your individual style and will confuse your audience.
2. The connection between your various artworks making up the ‘body of work’ can be as lose or as specific as you like. Ideas around locations, materials, colour, subject, seasonality and size are all good examples of starting points for a project.
3. A body of work can be a long term project and your practice will develop and change as time goes on. Keep the works connected through a physical link like colour, size or subject rather than bending your more advanced skills backwards to fit older work; there should be linear progression in a long term body of work.
4. A body of work is a good way to show consistency and fortitude to your public, galleries, event managers etc. When it comes to exhibitions or shows, putting together a specific body of work for an exclusive reveal is a great way to build up interest and grow an audience.
5. Be careful not to back yourself into a corner with too big a body of work. Like an actor, there’s a danger that you can get typecast in a role.
6. Think about presentation when displaying your body of work; you could unite everything by its title, framing or container colour etc. However you choose to define it, setting your body of work apart from the rest of your work is a good idea.
7. A body of work that conveys a message central to your identity as an artist can send a very powerful and specific statement allowing you to communicate your beliefs without overwhelming your entire practice.
The Takeaway
Creating a united body of work is excellent for motivation and personal development, but keep your focus and remember to stay true to your individual style
This Podcast is sponsored by Michael Harding Colours. For more information about Michael’s colour range or to find a retailer near you, please visit www.michaelharding.co.uk
