source: http://www.artsyshark.com/2011/08/26/artist-statement/
example: http://www.brennenmcelhaney.com/artist/statement.html
26 Tips How to Write Your Artist's Statement
Writing Your Artist's Statement Step-By-Step
A few days ago I counseled an artist who had to prepare an Artist's Statement because he wanted to apply to the Bronx Museum AIM Program. This is one of many purposes for writing one and why it is crucial to spend time and effort to make sure yours stands out from the others.
People who are attracted to your work will want to know more about the artist behind it. The Artist’s Statement offers you the opportunity to share your story, express your strong beliefs and artistic vision. As your viewers learn more about you and your intention they will become more engaged with your work and their desire to purchase it will grow. So, there is a very practical purpose for the Artist’s Statement.
Simply stated, the artist Robert Henri said, “Your statement is the way you talk in paint.”
Your Artist’s Statement also demonstrates that you know the content of your work, that you are serious about the direction you are currently taking, and that you have the ability to communicate clearly.
The Artist’s Statement serves as a basis from which to develop a verbal response when someone asks you about your work. This is often called “the elevator speech” because it should be stated clearly and in the same time as it takes to take a quick elevator ride.
I know that when artists need to write their Artist's Statements they can become frustrated at the thought of this great challenge. It can stop them from taking action or create one that is not to their best advantage. As a result, they can miss otherwise tremendous opportunities for career growth.
26 Guidelines for Writing Your Artist's Statement
1. It is important to find your own voice and not to copy that of another artist.
2. Write the Artist's Statement in the first person (I, not she or he.)
3. Keep your length to one, double-spaced, typewritten page.
4.Use "picture words" to express yourself in the most articulate manner.
5. Explain the motivation behind your process.
6. Explain how your work develops and evolves during the creative process.
7. Describe your medium and your style.
8. Relate your technique and style to your medium and your vision and philosophy.
9. Avoid self-doubt statements such as "I try to…"
10. Avoid the use of jargon and cliché. Consider this: What may be understood to Americans may have a different connotation to a European or Asian audience.
11. Discuss the way(s) in which your work, medium, technique or vision is unique.
12. If appropriate mention your use of ancient or modern symbols or historical influences.
13. If you work in series, explain how they are connected - if they are.
14. If you work in series but they are dissimilar write a different artist's statement for each series of work.
15. Write honestly and avoid writing in a tone that speaks down to your reader.
16. Avoid grandiose and empty expressions.
17. Avoid simplification.
18. Avoid being overly technical.
19. Avoid self-doubt statements such as "I try to. or I hope... "
20. Avoid repetition.
21. Vary sentence structure and length.
22. Adjust the length of your sentence to relate to the complexity of the idea.
23. After you write your artist's statement, try it out on someone who is not involved in the art world to ensure its clarity.
24. Use spell check. Have someone who is good with grammar proofread it for you to check for misspelled words and typographical errors.
25. If you find the task extremely difficult, don't hesitate to obtain some coaching or editing from a professional art writer.
26. To help you get started keep a journal to record your ideas, before, during and after a creative session in the studio.
This is a small excerpt from Renee's document "How to Write Your Artists Statement" available as a PDF.
Need Personalized Advice?
Renee offers critiques and writing services for Artist's Statements and Biographies -- whether you need some advice and feedback on your already existing written materials or want her to edit or write them for you. For more information Visithttp://www.manhattanarts.com/ReneePhillips/consult
Renee offers critiques and writing services for Artist's Statements and Biographies -- whether you need some advice and feedback on your already existing written materials or want her to edit or write them for you. For more information Visithttp://www.manhattanarts.com/ReneePhillips/consult
Comments
Post a Comment