As an artist, first impressions are important in connecting with your audience and possible buyers. You want to feel competent and not come across as amateur when approaching galleries to represent you. Sometimes it’s not all about the money and wanting to sell your art, but also it’s about having it shown and appreciated to feel fulfilled and recognized. A powerful artist statement can help you with all that.
What Is An Artist Statement?
An artist statement is a general introduction to your work. It helps your audience get a clearer sense of you and your niche. It describes your art and why you make it. It can read as if the artist is present and talking about their work or in the third person, as if someone else is speaking about the artist.
What Are Some Mistakes When Writing An Artist Statement?
Your artist statement can make or break how your audience thinks about and relates to you. Here are some common mistakes you should avoid when writing an artist statement.
Don’t Use Art Jargon
Not everyone who reads your artist statement is an artist. It’s very likely they won’t understand art history, theories or processes. You will not be able to properly connect with your audience if they don’t understand what you’re trying to say. So use language that’s clear and commonly used.
Avoid Weak Phrases
Come across as confident by avoiding phrases such as “I hope to” and the words “trying”, “aspiring”, or “attempt” which are less clear and specific words.
Keep It Brief
It’s super easy to let your artist statement ramble. Keep coming back to it and distilling down the concepts and phrases until you have a short statement. There’s a time and place for longer artist statements but a shorter one is always needed.
What Do You Do After Writing Your Artist Statement?
After brainstorming and writing your artist statement, what should you do next?
Proofread
Read your written statement out loud, then ask yourself, “Is this me?”. Make sure you’re 100% sure that it fully represents who you are as well as your creative process.
Have Some Else Read It
Even the best authors need editors. This is because it’s easy to leave out important information that can really help to fully communicate what you want to get across.
Online Portfolio
An online artist portfolio, likely found on your website, is your digital calling card. Artists usually put their artist statements with their work, wherever it lives online, to easily allow their audience to develop more of a connection to the art.
Art Galleries
Art galleries are also a great place to put your artist statement. Station it right at the start of your exhibit so people who enter can read all about you. It’s a great introductory statement and will set the tone for art enthusiasts as they view your work. Or you can have a few copies available for those that are interested in taking a copy with them to consider when they’re away from the distractions of a gallery. This is great especially if it’s opening night.
Want To Stop Questioning Your Artist Statement?
As a business coach for artists, this is what I specialize in and I can help you draft or improve your artist statement. And, make it finally feel good for you to share it with others. Book a call with me to learn more about how we can work together.