An artist statement is a short piece of writing by a creative that explains their work in their own words. It typically covers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Artist statements appear in gallery exhibitions, grant and residency applications, portfolios, websites, and press materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It gives audiences, curators, and collectors context for understanding the work. Without it, viewers bring only their own interpretation. The statement invites them into the artist’s perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nCreativity is not the domain of one single person. Through free-association of thoughts and brainstorming, an accidental suggestion can be the best solution.<\/p>\nJoshua Fernandez, Film Director<\/cite><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Getting started is always the hardest part! Don\u2019t feel pressured to follow a specific model \u2013 approach this challenge as an exercise that can lead to new and positive ways of thinking about your work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gather your art in a digital space, or simply find a quiet spot in your studio. Begin with a simple mind-map; the brainstorm strategy will make the process feel more natural. Note down some words or statements that resonate with your practice and experience. These phrases will likely form the bones of your statement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A useful exercise is to ask yourself a set of critical questions about your art, and then record your answers. Speaking aloud can be a brilliant way of keeping your answers clear and succinct. These can be transcribed to kick-start the writing process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here are some prompts to get you started: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
About Your Work<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- What do you make, and what materials or techniques do you use?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What themes or ideas keep appearing in your work?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What does your work look like, and how would you describe it to someone who hasn’t seen it?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
About Your Why<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Why do you make art? What drives you to create?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What problem are you trying to solve, or what question are you exploring?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What do you want people to feel or think when they experience your work?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
About Your Influences<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- What experiences, places, or people have shaped your work?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Are there other artists, movements, or disciplines that influence you?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- How has your work evolved over time, and why?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
About Your Process<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- How do you work? Do you plan carefully or work intuitively?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What decisions do you make and why \u2014 colour, scale, material, subject?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What does a typical creative session look like for you?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
About Your Audience<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- Who are you making work for?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- What conversation do you want your work to be part of?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- If your work could say one thing, what would it be?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
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