Subject: Artist Statement
You have arrived at Step One.
Title: What is an Artist Statement?
Capture a Unique Image: Capture 1-3 unique images within or around this location with an emphasis on the element of pattern
What is an Artist Statement?
An Artist Statement is a piece of writing that you create in order to assist the audience in understanding your artistic work. Unlike artist bios which are written in third person, artist statements are written in the first person perspective.
An artist statement is meant to represent who you are as an artist, even if you are not present.
Artist Statement examples:
Click on one of the buttons below to view examples of Artist Statements. Be sure to read the Artist Statement then look at the artists work.
Discuss the examples with your team then write your responses to the following questions in your reflection section.
In your own words what is an Artist Statement?
Which Artist Statement stands out the most and why?
Is there anything you like or dislike about any of the Artist Statements? Explain why?
Which Artist Statement do you believe is the most effective and why?
What Makes These Artist Statements Work
These statements all provide additional context for the viewer and demonstrate the artist’s perspective which enriches the viewer’s understanding for and appreciation of their work. They all use the active voice, which is engaging. Even though they vary in length, they are compelling and avoid overwhelming the reader with too much information or detail. Each covers the what, why, and how – what their artwork is (medium and style), why they create their work (themes and influences), and how they create the work (artistic process – conceptual or physical).
What These Artist Statements Avoid Doing
These statements avoid using too much ‘artspeak’ or academic language, which can be confusing or alienating for some audiences. Instead, they are more personal and relatable from the artist’s perspective. They do not include a list of accomplishments or accolades which can be found on the artist’s CV or highlighted in the artist’s bio. They avoid extreme binary statements. They don’t include clichés about the artist’s work nor grand statements about the artist’s role in the world. They also don’t brag about the work.