Submitted
by Pam Stephens
Artist’s Statement
What
is an artist’s statement?
The
artist’s statement describes who you are as an artist
and what your art is about. Artist’s statements are used
as marketing tools to sell you and your work; to inform
viewers. Brag about yourself and your work.
Some
General Guidelines
- Use
an economy of words; one page or about three
paragraphs is usually plenty.
- Use
active words and present tense; avoid “to be”
verbs and past tense.
- Keep
it professional: use good paper, clean layout, and
simple fonts.
- Discuss
your personal art values or aesthetic (the philosophy
behind your work; the reasons you create)
- Describe
your style and medium (this is a good place to point
out your unique creative processes)
- Include
events or experiences that have contributed to your
development as an artist.
- Give
a concise and authoritative close.
- Avoid
pretentiousness; make it easy and interesting to read
and understand
Planning
Begin
by brainstorming words and phrases. Do not be concerned
about writing complete sentences. The following questions
are meant as prompts to help you begin. You may choose to
develop other questions.
- What
are your personal art values or aesthetic?
- How
are your personal art values or aesthetic seen in your
artwork?
- What
do you like best about the finished product?
- Describe
the medium you use.
- Describe
your style.
- Describe
a theme that runs through your work.
- Why
did you decide to become an artist?
- What
do you like best about making art?
- What
has influenced your work (Travel? Other artists?
Family? Culture?) How does your work reflect this
influence?
Putting
the Artist’s Statement Together: A Sample
Paragraph
I: Make a clear and concise statement about your artistic
values or aesthetic or why you create. Support that
statement with at least two reasons.
Paragraph
II: Describe one of your works or a body of your work in
such a way as to guide a viewer to understanding. This
could include your use of the elements of art and
principles of design, your unique use of tools and
materials, or your style.
Paragraph
III. Give the reader/viewer closure. Give a few more hints
about your work. This is where you can point out a theme
or discuss those experiences that influence your work.
Review
and Revise
Edit
for grammar, content, understanding, and effective layout.
Remember
You
grow and change as an artist. Your artist’s statement
should also grow and change.
Copyright
© Pam Stephens
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