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29 September 2023

6 minutes read

Artist Statement of Purpose Examples: Crafting Your Fine Art Personal Statement

When it comes to pursuing a career in fine art, a well-crafted artist statement of purpose can be your ticket to success. Whether you’re applying for an MFA, BFA, or a position in the art world, your personal statement holds the key to showcasing your passion, creativity, and dedication.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into artist statement of purpose examples, helping you understand how to articulate your love for art effectively and create a compelling personal statement.

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• The Importance of a Personal Statement

Your personal statement, often interchangeably referred to as a statement of purpose (SOP), is your opportunity to tell your unique story as an artist. It allows admissions committees or potential employers to get to know you beyond your portfolio or resume.

Your personal statement should convey your artistic journey, influences, experiences, and future aspirations. It’s a chance to make a lasting impression and demonstrate why you are a perfect fit for your chosen fine art program or career in the art world.

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• Crafting a Captivating Introduction

Personal Statement

Your personal statement should begin with a captivating introduction that immediately grabs the reader’s attention. Think of it as the opening scene in a captivating movie. Here’s an example:

“Art has always been my muse, guiding my life’s path towards creative expression. From the moment I held a paintbrush, I knew that art was more than just colors on a canvas; it was a form of storytelling, a means to connect with the world and express the deepest facets of my being.”

Expressing Your Love for Fine Art

Your introduction should convey your deep-seated love for fine art. You can talk about when and how your passion for art first ignited. Maybe it was a childhood memory of visiting an art museum, or perhaps you had an inspiring art teacher who encouraged your creativity. Sharing this personal connection with art can draw readers into your narrative.

Defining Your Artistic Identity

In the introduction, you should also touch upon what makes your artistic identity unique. What sets you apart as an artist? Do you have a signature style, technique, or theme that defines your work? This is the time to provide a glimpse into what makes your art special.

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• Sharing Concrete Examples of Your Work and Experiences

Statement Examples

Once you’ve captured your reader’s attention with a compelling introduction, it’s time to delve into the heart of your personal statement by sharing concrete examples of your work and experiences. This section should showcase your artistic journey and demonstrate your dedication to your craft.

Highlighting Artistic Milestones

In this section, you can mention significant milestones in your artistic journey. These could include exhibitions, awards, or collaborations that have shaped your development as an artist. For instance:

“Over the years, I have had the privilege of showcasing my work in prestigious galleries and museums, such as the Tate Modern in London. These opportunities not only exposed my art to a wider audience but also pushed me to constantly evolve as an artist.”

By highlighting these achievements, you demonstrate your commitment to your art and your ability to thrive in the competitive art world.

Discussing Artistic Influences

Artists are often inspired by the work of others. Share the artists or artworks that have influenced your creative process. You might mention famous painters, sculptors, or contemporary artists whose work resonates with you. Explaining how these influences have shaped your artistic perspective can provide insight into your unique approach to art.

Detailing Your Educational Background

If you’ve pursued formal education in fine art, whether it’s an undergraduate degree, a BFA, or an MFA, this is the place to discuss it. Talk about your academic journey, the courses that had a profound impact on you, and any mentors who guided your artistic growth. Be sure to convey how your education has contributed to your development as an artist.

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• Exploring Specific Interests and Influences

Art and Design Personal Statement

Art is a vast and diverse field, and this section allows you to explore your specific interests and influences in greater detail. Whether you’re passionate about painting, sculpture, graphic design, or any other art form, here’s where you can delve into the heart of your creative focus.

Passion for a Specific Art Form

Share your deep-seated passion for your chosen art form. Explain why you are drawn to it and how it allows you to express yourself. For example:

“My fascination with seascapes and the fragility of nature has been a recurring theme in my work. It’s a subject that allows me to explore the vastness and immensity of the natural world while conveying its fragility.”

Artistic Inspirations

Discuss the artists or movements that have had a profound impact on your work within your chosen art form. Whether it’s the abstract expressionism of Jackson Pollock or the precision of Renaissance art, detailing these influences adds depth to your personal statement.

Your Creative Process

Take the reader on a journey through your creative process. How do you approach your work? Do you start with sketches, embrace spontaneity, or meticulously plan each piece? Sharing your process can provide insight into your artistic mindset.

• Articulating Your Goals and Aspirations

Fine Art Personal Statement

Your personal statement should not only reflect on your past but also look to the future. What are your artistic goals and aspirations? Where do you see yourself in the art world? This section allows you to articulate your vision and ambition as an artist.

Short-Term Goals

Discuss your immediate goals within the art world. Whether it’s participating in specific exhibitions, collaborating with fellow artists, or mastering a new technique, these short-term objectives reveal your drive and commitment.

Long-Term Aspirations

Take a broader view and share your long-term aspirations. Do you dream of curating your own gallery, teaching art to the next generation, or becoming an internationally recognized artist? Expressing these ambitions paints a vivid picture of your future in the art world.

Why This Program or Career?

If you’re applying to a specific program, be it an MFA or a job opportunity, explain why it’s the perfect fit for your artistic journey. Mention how the program’s curriculum, faculty, or mission align with your goals.

• Tailoring Your Statement for MFA and BFA Applications

MFA and BFA

Depending on whether you’re applying for a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program, there are specific elements to emphasize in your personal statement.

MFA Program Emphasis

For MFA applicants, emphasize your commitment to furthering your craft and the advanced level of artistry you bring to the table. Discuss your readiness for the intensive program and your eagerness to engage in critical discourse with fellow artists.

“Enrolling in the MFA program at [University Name] is a natural step in my journey to become a professional artist. I am ready to immerse myself in a community of dedicated artists, engage in rigorous critiques, and push the boundaries of my creative practice.”

BFA Program Emphasis

Similarly, BFA applicants should convey their passion and readiness to embark on their educational journey. Highlight your enthusiasm for learning and your willingness to explore various aspects of fine art.

“I am eager to embark on the BFA program, where I can continue to refine my graphic design and photography skills. This program’s focus on nurturing emerging artists aligns perfectly with my goals of honing my craft and exploring new artistic horizons.”

• Showcasing Your Love for Art History

Art History

For those with a passion for art history, your personal statement should reflect your deep love for the subject and your desire to explore its intricacies.

Unearthing Art Historical Insights

Share your favorite periods, artists, or art movements within the scope of art history. Discuss why you find these aspects particularly fascinating and how they have influenced your perspective.

“Art history has been my guiding light in understanding the evolution of artistic expression. I am particularly captivated by the Romantic period and its emphasis on emotion, individualism, and nature, as seen in the works of artists like Caspar David Friedrich.”

Academic Pursuits

If you’re applying for graduate studies in art history, discuss your academic interests and the areas of art history you wish to explore further. Mention any research projects, papers, or presentations that showcase your dedication to the field.

“ During my undergraduate studies, I delved into the complexities of American art history. My thesis on the impact of Abstract Expressionism on post-war American society was a testament to my commitment to scholarly pursuits in this field .”

• Conclusion: Crafting Your Artistic Narrative

Crafting a compelling artist statement of purpose is an art form in itself. By drawing inspiration from these examples and infusing your personal experiences, you can create a statement that reflects your passion for fine art.

Remember, your personal statement is your opportunity to shine and convey why you are a perfect fit for your chosen fine art program or career in the art world.

In closing, let your personal statement be a testament to your love for art and your unwavering commitment to the world of creativity. Use it as a canvas to paint your story, one brushstroke at a time, and let your passion shine through every word. Your artistic journey begins with your statement of purpose, so make it a masterpiece.

With this comprehensive guide, you now have the tools and inspiration to craft a personal statement that leaves a lasting impression and sets you on a path toward success in the world of fine art. Embrace your creativity, share your story, and let your love for art guide you on this incredible artistic journey.

What should I include in my artist statement of purpose?

Your statement should cover your artistic journey, influences, experiences, and future aspirations. Use concrete examples to illustrate your passion for fine art.

How long should my personal statement be?

Aim for a concise statement, typically around 500-800 words. Be sure to follow any specific word limit guidelines provided by the institution or program.

Can I use samples of my work in my statement?

Absolutely! Including images or descriptions of your work can add depth to your statement and showcase your artistic abilities.

Should I mention specific artists or artworks that inspire me?

Yes, mentioning artists or artworks that have influenced you can provide insight into your artistic perspective and passion.

How important is the artist statement in the application process?

Your personal statement is a crucial component of your application. It allows admissions committees to understand your unique voice, passion, and suitability for their program.

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Table of Contents

• • The Importance of a Personal Statement
• • Crafting a Captivating Introduction
• • Sharing Concrete Examples of Your Work and Experiences
• • Exploring Specific Interests and Influences
• • Articulating Your Goals and Aspirations
• • Tailoring Your Statement for MFA and BFA Applications
• • Showcasing Your Love for Art History
• • Conclusion: Crafting Your Artistic Narrative

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Art & Design Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 UK Earnings Potential For Arts and Design
• 5 Similar Courses in UK
• 6 UK Curriculum
• 7 Alumni Network

Personal Statement Example Links

• Personal Statement Example 1
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• Personal Statement Example 6

Ever been driven by a passion for creating, expressing, and visualising ideas? Fascinated by the prospect of using visual and tangible media to communicate and influence?

If so, a degree in Art and Design could be your perfect journey. This dynamic field encourages you to explore your creative potential, apply design principles, and understand the aesthetic, cultural, and social dimensions of art.

Art Design is an exciting and relevant university course for students interested in exploring the creative and innovative aspects of art. This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of art and design, including color theory, composition, and the importance of concept.

Students will learn how to effectively communicate their ideas through a variety of mediums, such as drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, and digital media. Additionally, students will gain an understanding of the history of art and design, and how it has evolved over time.

The course will also cover the practical aspects of art and design, such as how to create a portfolio, how to market their work, and how to use various tools and techniques to create their own unique works of art.

Furthermore, students will be taught how to apply their creative skills to real-world problems, such as designing products or creating visual campaigns for businesses.

Overall, Art Design is an interesting and relevant choice for students who are interested in exploring the creative and innovative aspects of art. It provides students with the opportunity to develop their skills and gain a deeper understanding of the art and design process.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

Earning an Art and Design degree from a UK university offers a rich variety of career possibilities, allowing you to channel your creativity in numerous ways:

1. Graphic Designer: Create visual concepts to communicate ideas, inspire, inform, or captivate consumers.

2. Art Director: Manage and coordinate the creative design output within advertising, media, or product development environments.

3. Illustrator: Produce drawings, diagrams or similar artwork for use in products like books, magazines, and digital media.

4. Exhibition Designer: Plan and design commercial exhibitions, including art galleries and museums, trade exhibitions and retail spaces.

5. Product Designer: Develop new product ideas and designs based on market trends and consumer needs.

6. Textile Designer: Create original designs for fabrics, carpets, wall coverings, and other textile products.

7. Art Therapist: Use the creative process of making art to improve individuals’ physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

8. Art Teacher: Inspire the next generation of artists by teaching art and design at various levels of education.

These are just a few of the creative and rewarding pathways available to you with an Art and Design degree. Let your creativity lead the way to a vibrant career!

UK Admission Requirements

In order to be accepted into the Art Design course at a UK university, applicants must meet the following entry criteria:

Grades: Applicants must have achieved a minimum of a Grade C in GCSE Art and Design, or equivalent qualifications.

Prerequisites: Applicants should have a good understanding of the fundamentals of art and design, including an understanding of the principles of design, colour theory, drawing and painting.

Other Entry Criteria: Applicants should be able to demonstrate a portfolio of work that showcases their creative ability and potential.

This entry criteria is similar to other courses in the UK, as many universities will require applicants to have achieved a minimum of a Grade C in GCSE Art and Design, or equivalent qualifications. Additionally, many universities will require applicants to demonstrate a portfolio of work that showcases their creative ability and potential.

UK Earnings Potential For Arts and Design

The average earnings for someone with a degree in art and design can vary greatly depending on the specific job they pursue. Generally speaking, graduates with a degree in art and design can expect to earn an average of £25,000 to £30,000 per year. However, those who pursue higher-level positions in the field, such as graphic designers, may earn significantly more.

In terms of trends in the job market, there is a growing demand for art and design professionals, particularly in the digital and creative industries. As technology advances, the need for skilled art and design professionals is increasing and this is likely to continue in the future. Additionally, the demand for art and design professionals is expected to increase in other industries, such as advertising and marketing, as companies look to create more visually appealing products and campaigns.

Similar Courses in UK

Other university courses related to Art Design include Graphic Design, Illustration, Animation, and Photography.

Graphic Design is a creative and technical field that focuses on the visual communication of a message or idea. It involves the use of typography, imagery, colour, and layout to create a visual representation of a concept. Graphic Designers often work with clients to create logos, branding, websites, and other visual elements.

Illustration is a creative field that involves the use of visual art to interpret or express ideas. Illustrators often work with clients to create illustrations for books, magazines, and other publications. They use a variety of media, such as pencil, ink, watercolour, and digital tools, to create their artwork.

Animation is a creative field that involves the use of computer-generated images to create the illusion of movement. Animators often work with clients to create animated films, television shows, and video games. They use a variety of techniques, such as stop-motion, 3D modelling, and motion capture, to create their work.

Photography is a creative field that involves the use of cameras to capture images. Photographers often work with clients to create photographs for magazines, websites, and other publications. They use a variety of techniques, such as lighting, composition, and post-processing, to create their work.

The key differences between these courses and Art Design are the tools and techniques used to create their artwork.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in an Art Design course in the UK Curriculum include:

• Visual Communication: This module covers the fundamentals of visual communication, including the use of colour, form, composition, and typography. Students will learn how to create effective visual messages and how to use the principles of visual communication in their own work.
• Drawing: This module covers the basics of drawing, including line, shape, form, and texture. Students will learn how to use different drawing techniques and materials to create visual compositions.
• Painting: This module covers the fundamentals of painting, including colour theory, mixing, and brushwork. Students will learn how to use different painting techniques and materials to create visual artworks.
• Sculpture: This module covers the basics of sculpture, including the use of different materials and techniques. Students will learn how to create three-dimensional artworks.
• Digital Art: This module covers the fundamentals of digital art, including the use of digital tools and software. Students will learn how to use different digital tools and techniques to create digital artworks.
• Art History: This module covers the history of art, from the ancient to the modern. Students will learn about the different movements and artists that have shaped the history of art.

In addition to the theoretical modules, students in an Art Design course will also have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and practical work. This could include working on individual or group projects, using various design software, creating prototypes, and presenting their designs for critique.

They may also have opportunities for internships or work placements in design studios or companies, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world contexts.

Alumni Network

Notable alumni from the Art Design course at the University include artist and designer, Yinka Shonibare MBE. Yinka is a British-Nigerian artist who has exhibited in galleries around the world, including the Tate Modern and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

He is known for his vibrant, patterned installations and sculptures, which explore issues of race, colonialism, and identity. Yinka has been awarded numerous awards, including the MBE for services to art in 2004.

The university offers a range of alumni events and networking opportunities, including an annual alumni art exhibition, which showcases the work of alumni and current students. There are also regular alumni networking events, which provide a platform for alumni to connect with each other and to share their experiences.

The university also runs an alumni mentorship program, which provides alumni with the opportunity to mentor current students and to gain valuable insights into the art and design industry.

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Crafting Artistic Statements: 10 Powerful Examples & Guide

If you’ve been dreading writing your artist statement, you’re not alone. Although you love working on your artwork , coming up with an artist statement isn’t always easy.

But don’t fear! I’ll share some examples of famous artist statements here. Plus, I’ll walk you through how to write your own artist statement, what to include, and what to skip. 

So, let’s get started!

10 Excellent Artist Statement Examples

Here are ten great artist statement examples you can use for inspiration! Looking at good artist statements can help you decide what to include in your own. But don’t feel like you should copy a sample artist statement – remember to make it unique and personal! 

1. Wassily Kandinsky

“I let myself go. I thought little of the houses and trees, but applied color stripes and spots to the canvas… Within me sounded the memory of the early evening in Moscow – before my eyes were the strong, color-saturated scale of the Munich light and atmosphere, which thundered deeply in the shadows.”

2. Gustav Klimt

“I have never painted a self-portrait. I am less interested in myself as a subject for a painting than I am in other people, above all women… There is nothing special about me. I am a painter who paints day after day from morning to night… Whoever wants to know something about me… ought to look carefully at my pictures.”

3. Mark Rothko

“I’m not interested in relationships of color or form or anything else. I’m interested only in expressing basic human emotions – tragedy, ecstasy, doom, and so on – and the fact that lots of people break down and cry when confronted with my pictures shows that I communicate those basic human emotions… The people who weep before my pictures are having the same religion I had when I painted them.”

4. Edvard Munch

“I was walking along a path with two friends – the sun was setting – suddenly the sky turned blood red – I paused, feeling exhausted, and leaned on the fence – there were blood and tongues of fire above the blue-black fjord and the city – my friends walked on, and I stood there trembling with anxiety – and I sensed an infinite scream passing through nature.”

5. Pablo Picasso

“I have never made trials or experiments. Whenever I had something to say, I have said it in the manner in which it needed to be said… I can hardly understand the importance given to the word “research” in connection with the modern painting. In my opinion to search means nothing in painting. To find is the thing.”

6. Jackson Pollock

“I want to express my feelings rather than illustrate them. It doesn’t matter how the paint is put on, as long as something is said. On the floor, I am more at ease. I feel nearer, more part of the painting, since this way I can walk around it, work from the four sides and literally be in the painting. When I’m painting, I’m not aware of what I’m doing. It’s only after a get-acquainted period that I see what I’ve been about. I’ve no fears about making changes for the painting has a life of its own.”

7. Nancy McIntyre

“What do I want to say with my art? Celebrate the human, the marks people make on the world. Treasure the local, the small-scale, the eccentric, the ordinary: whatever is made out of caring. Respect what people have built for themselves. Find the beauty in some battered old porch or cluttered, human-scale storefront, while it still stands.”

8. Duane Keiser

“My subject matter tends to be those fragmentary passages that reside within the mundane – the in-between spaces of our lives that we see but often do not notice. For me, these paintings are about the pleasure of seeing; of being cognizant of the world around me, and pushing to find an alchemy between the paint, my subject, and the moment. I view each piece as being part of a single, ongoing work.”

9. Charlene Fuhrman-Schulz

“My subject matter is nature, whether it is a traditional landscape or a bird and flower painting. I use traditional materials, ink, and brush on rice paper, to capture movement and life — making the brush dance and the ink sing. Everything is captured in the spontaneous dance and movement of the brush as it meets the rice paper. There is no going back and correcting when painting with ink and rice paper.”

10. Georgia O’Keeffe 

“I have but one desire as a painter – that is to paint what I see, as I see it, in my own way, without regard for the desires or taste of the professional dealer or the professional collector. I attribute what little success I have to this fact. I wouldn’t turn out stuff for order, and I couldn’t. It would stifle any creative ability I possess.”

What is an Artist Statement?

Every artist needs to write an artist statement at some point. But, what is it exactly?

An artist statement gives insight into the artist’s process and creative decisions. It can also explain the themes, ideas, and vision of the artist. You can think of it as an initial introduction to yourself and your work to give a great first impression!

Artist statements officially date back to the 1990s . But while they haven’t been around a long time, artists have always tried to define and explain their work. 

These statements can vary in length from a few sentences to a page or more. Each statement will differ, but you want yours to be memorable and easy to understand.

Most importantly, it should help people to understand your work.

Artist statements are used for many reasons. You may use yours when applying for grants, submitting a portfolio, or for PR and press mentions.  It can also appear on your website. 

So, it’s an essential document you’ll need to create. It’s key to growing your following and building a successful career as an artist. 

Writing an artist statement can also help you to get clear on your overall vision and values. You might need to spend some time reflecting on what your art means to you.

And yes, it does mean you’ll have to put down the paintbrush briefly. But with these tips, you’ll know exactly how to write your artist statement. 

Once it’s written, you can use the same statement again and again. If your artwork evolves over time, you may want to update it slightly. But you’ll have already done the hard work researching, planning, and writing it.

How to Write an Artist Statement

Writing an artist statement sounds daunting, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. 

Here are my simple steps for crafting an engaging and effective artist statement! These tips will take you from a bland statement to an amazing artist’s mission statement.

Use simple language

Don’t overcomplicate your statement or use very academic language. That can put people off reading it. Your statement must be powerful and accessible to everyone.

Use active voice and 1st person perspective

I always recommend using the active voice as it comes across as more confident and powerful. Avoid wishy-washy phrases like:

• I want to … in my work

Instead, switch it to active voice. Instantly, you’ll have a more interesting and captivating statement. 

Using 1st person perspective also ensures that your statement is clear and direct. 

Keep it short and sweet

You want to grab the reader’s attention and hold their interest. Avoid an artist statement that is several paragraphs (or pages!) long. A short artist statement is more powerful. So, it should be concise and to the point, without any filler. 

Condense what you want to say down into as little as possible without losing the meaning. Your artist statement should be short enough to quote! 

Ask yourself questions

Your statement allows you to provide a greater understanding of your creative choices. It can give a window into your thought process, so people can take more from your art.

But you need to ensure you include this information in your statement. Otherwise, you’re missing an opportunity. 

One effective method is to think about what people might want to know from you. What questions do you get asked in interviews?

Here are a few questions you could ask yourself:

• What do you want to achieve with your art?
• How do you create your artwork?
• What type of artist am I?
• How does the process, medium, or technique affect the work?
• What does the reader need to know to understand your artwork?
• What emotions do you want to invoke in the reader?
• Who has influenced you in your artistic career, and particularly in this work?
• Who or what are you addressing in this artwork?
• What else do you want your audience to know?
• How does this work relate to your other works?
• What is your art philosophy?
• How does your artwork fit into the history of art?

Don’t worry – you don’t have to answer all these questions in your statement. You can decide which ones make sense. Remember that short and sweet is better than long and dry – you want to get people interested in you!

Once you’ve identified what people want to know about you and your art, you can consider your responses. 

Do your research

A great way to get inspiration for your artist statement is by looking at other examples. You can read up on how the old masters or contemporary artists describe their work. 

Doing some research will help you understand how to structure your statement. It can also give you food for thought to delve deeper into the meanings of your artwork, too! 

If you’re still struggling, there are artist statement templates you can use to get you started. A template will help you build your statement’s structure so that you can concentrate on the details. 

Step away and come back later to edit

It’s easy to get caught up in the details and overthink something as important as an artist’s statement. This document is meaningful and may provoke lots of thoughts or emotions. 

If you find yourself writing and editing, again and again, take some time to step away. Any piece of writing benefits from a fresh eye. When you work on something for a long time, it’s easy to miss any minor details or mistakes.

I always recommend coming back another day to read through and make any final changes. 

The Wrap Up

Writing your artist statement doesn’t have to be a painstaking process. Now, you’ve had a look at some great artist statements. With these simple tips, you’re all set to craft your own statement now! 

Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below. Go ahead and share your artist statement once you’ve written it, too! 

Follow me on Pinterest for more tips, guides, and tutorials for creative professionals! 

Outmane is the founder of Proactive Creative. He is an artist/designer.

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• Personal Statements

Art and Design Personal Statement

Sample Statement

For as long as I can remember I have been creative and enjoyed drawing. At an early age I could be found doodling or colouring in any piece of paper I could get my hands on, including my mother’s bank statements!

A defining moment in my creative career was visiting the National Portrait Gallery for the first time as a young child. The idea of generations of important historical figures being brought together under one roof all in the name of art fascinated me.

I excelled in art and craft projects during primary school, something which continued throughout my educational career as I took on several ambitious mixed media projects during my GCSE and ‘A’ Level years.

The formal study of Art and Design during my time at school has equipped me with the skill set to use a variety of techniques and materials. However, I still feel that I have a long journey ahead of me to become the artist I wish to be, and that a place on the Art and Design course would help me achieve my goals.

Outside of school I spend a lot of time taking photographs, visiting galleries and museums, and reading graphic novels. I have also taken an animation course independently to further explore the way this style of art is used.

I hope to travel, UK and abroad, more during my time at university as I feel this opens up new opportunities and provides a huge amount of inspiration.

Having volunteered at my local gallery I understand the business aspects associated with being an artist, holding exhibitions, and conducting sales and deals. My time with the gallery also taught me a lot about the correct way to display art, sculptures, and installations.

I very much look forward to honing my craft with a group of like-minded people and discovering how their interpretations either agree, or are in conflict with, my own.

After completing the course I hope to have produced work worthy of being submitted to galleries and aim to become a gallery curator and working artist. 

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Art and design personal statement example 1.

Although I pursued an academic rather than creative path in school, I have always been fascinated by the patterns that occur in art, architecture and the natural world, and drawing and painting have heightened my appreciation of them. Creating art, whether it is realistic or abstract, has helped me to see the world more clearly.

In October 2007 I began studying Classics and Modern Languages at Oxford University, but I had to leave in my first term as the problems my dyspraxia caused me were more severe than anticipated and I struggled to cope with day-to-day living and developed mental health problems. Studying this course would give me an opportunity to get back into Higher Education and to learn more about something which has always interested me.

Although I have no formal qualifications in art, I have kept up my passion for it outside the curriculum. My favourite material to work with is charcoal, as I find it helps me to portray texture better than any other material, although I also enjoy working with paints, pencil, collage and I have recently begun to develop an interest in tapestry and relish the opportunity to explore new media which this course would offer me. I have recently been doing a life-drawing project on wood, which stems from my interest in the forms and textures in nature.

I have also been inspired by the art I have seen as part of my study of other subjects. On a school trip to Spain, I visited various museums and was particularly moved by Picasso's Guernica at the Reina Sofia Museum and I was fascinated by Hieronymus Bosch's Garden of Earthly delights which I saw at the Prado. At the Prado, I was also privileged to see some of the works of El Greco, which I found deeply moving.

As a practising Christian, the art of the spiritual matters particularly to me, and I want to learn more about both Christian art and the iconography and architecture of other major world religions. Another thing which left a deep impression upon me when I visited Spain was the Moorish architecture I saw in Toledo. I am also interested in the psychology behind art and how people are empowered by artistic self-expression. For this reason, I am a supporter of the work of The Autism Acceptance Project, an organisation which showcases the artwork of autistic adults.

In my spare time, I have undertaken a variety of voluntary work. I helped with my school's Youth SVP scheme, which organised clubs to help local primary school with reading. I also was a Youth Leader at Edmund Rice Camp, a week-long summer play scheme for children aged between seven and eleven.

This year, I have worked at The Croft Nursery School in Newcastle-under-Lyme with children aged three to four. I have enjoyed this immensely and feel it has improved my ability to collaborate with others. Alongside this, my love of the countryside has led me to complete the Duke of Edinburgh's award (bronze) and have participated in Student Cross, a 125-mile hike from Oxford to Walsingham.

Learning about other cultures, both those of the past and of the present, is also a hobby of mine. For this reason I have always been engrossed by the study of languages and I am currently learning ancient Greek. I also enjoy reading a variety of literature and creative writing (both fiction and non-fiction) and have had several current events articles published online.

My curiosity about language, literature and culture sets my enthusiasm for art in a broader context and is a source of inspiration.

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This personal statement was written by sanabituranima for application in 2000.

sanabituranima's Comments

I was pretty pleased with it. I got onto the course, so it must have been ok.

This personal statement is unrated

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Unique & Better Art Foundation Personal Statement Example

Table of Contents

When considering a career in the arts, it’s essential to have a well-crafted personal statement to show off your talent and passion. A strong personal statement can set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of acceptance into your coveted art school. Creating a personal statement that stands out takes time and effort. But a well-written art foundation personal statement example can help organize your thoughts and get you on the right track.

This article will list practical tips to help you write a compelling personal statement and provide an example for inspiration.

What Is an Art Foundation Personal Statement?

An art foundation personal statement is a writing sample that demonstrates your creative and intellectual potential in the field of visual arts. Other personal statements focus on extracurricular experiences or academic achievements. But an art foundation personal statement highlights your aptitude for making and responding to artwork.

Besides showcasing your critical thinking skills and artistic inclinations, a successful statement reflects your interest in the particular program to which you are applying. As such, it is important to research each school’s curriculum before beginning work on your essay.

How to Write a Great Art Foundation Personal Statement

When writing an art foundation personal statement , be sure to keep the following in mind:

• Start by introducing yourself and your art practice. Write a brief description of your artistic inspirations.
• Outline why you’re interested in studying art foundation . Explain what you hope to gain from it and how it will help you achieve your artistic goals.
• Demonstrate your creative skills . Explain how they have developed over time through specific examples of past artwork or projects related to the art foundation studies field.
• Discuss any significant achievements or awards you may have earned related to your art practice. Mention any other noteworthy experiences or encounters that have influenced your work as an artist/designer.
• Finish with a strong statement about why you believe that an art foundation course is the right next step for you. Stress all of the reasons why attending this particular program is essential for achieving your future artistic aspirations.

Art Foundation Personal Statement Example

Here’s an art foundation personal statement example to use as inspiration when writing one for your own. This example has been generated by the amazing AI-powered Hey INK tool.

Art and Design Personal Statement Example

As long as I can remember, art has been a critical part of my life. From the crayon drawings that adorned our refrigerator to the elaborate paintings and sculptures that lined our home, art was always around me. It wasn’t until high school that I was first introduced to design principles. I had the first formal art class, where I truly began to appreciate creation in all its forms.

Since then, I’ve made it a point not just to consume but also to create artwork myself. Whether it’s through painting portraits or composing music compositions, photography or film-making, apparel design or architecture—I love diving into any creative endeavor headfirst. What excites me most about these mediums is how they’re constantly evolving and provide seemingly infinite possibilities for exploration.

One of the things that initially drew me towards studying graphic design specifically is how this field marries creativity with functionality. There’s something so inherently gratifying about solving problems through visual communication. To be able to take something from an idea in my mind and see it manifested physically on paper (or screen) is incredibly fulfilling. And being surrounded by like-minded people who share this passion makes San Francisco State feel like a home away from home.

With my background and passion for art, I feel well-equipped to study Fine Arts at the university level. Moreover, I believe that my skill set goes beyond mere artistic talent. I am confident that I possess key qualities such as creativity, dedication, and perseverance – qualities that are essential for any successful artist or designer.

A strong Art Foundation personal statement is the key to cracking your dream university. Those brave few who succeeded in getting into the prestigious institution of their choice have one thing in common: a stellar personal statement. Use the tips in this post and the personal statement example to write a compelling statement that secures a position in a competitive institution.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Art and Design

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Art and Design

Art has always been a form of expressive and elevating nature. Telling intricate stories through compositions and being able to denote messages through imagery has been a fundamentally meaningful aspect of my upbringing. Being half Dutch and immersing myself in the language has enriched my understanding of the world, whilst allowing me to see creativity across different nations, thus expanding my knowledge and curiosity for the subject.

My infatuation for art and design and therefore, drawing and illustrating has been prominent from a young age- seen through gaining East Anglia young artist 2010 and leading me to study A level art. This has been a process both creatively and personally developmental. I've allowed and encouraged myself to use the qualification and workshops as a platform for my own personal interpretations and ideas. This notion is intriguing as it has really urged me to think less like a standard student and more like a practising artist or designer; assisting me to adhere to briefs whilst thinking imaginatively. Taking this course will propel me to find new ways of communicating such as through print, visual arts and animation. Moreover, always drawing and creating in my sketch-books and finding inspiration everywhere has allowed me to start to develop my own unique style and therefore, I'm excited to experiment with new methods towards art in a focused and practise environment.

My inquisitiveness has taught me to question multiple facets across the broad spectrum of art and design. I take pride in teaching myself about adobe Photoshop and illustrator, allowing me to gain more of an insight into the technical aspects of art and digital strategies. Social connections in the industry are crucial, therefore setting up an art Instagram has encouraged me to share my work with fellow artists and peers. I have also gained valuable interpersonal abilities through volunteering in my local town and other activities around school, allowing me to express opinion and critique along with team-building skills- nurtured through bronze DofE.

Across my studies, I have always questioned 'how can I take this further?' and 'how will this benefit others around me?' meaning a range of interests alongside art have been significant for me. History has encouraged a love of analysing and evaluating, in addition to teaching me about diverse cultures and societies. I enjoy this, as enriching myself with a range of information both in and outside of the lesson is important in gaining perception into what we have and what we should appreciate. Translating art into other subjects has taught me that it doesn't necessarily have to lie at the end of a pen, but art is ever-present in a multitude of societal contexts. English language A-level has taught me multiple skills and opened many doors in terms of analytical abilities. Growing up, I was fascinated by Shirley Hughes books and illustrations and how she uses art and language together as a platform for storytelling. This curiosity has encouraged my own personal research into typography and how it can be used as a new way of relaying messages graphically. Maths AS level has helped likewise in using all kinds of techniques and approaches to solve a problem. This I think, is a valued skill that I can bring to degree level studies and flourishing into a successful artist.

My own imagination and passion have the ability to create original and innovative work to the highest standard. The desire to craft comes from within, and gaining a degree in an art and design-based subject will provide a valuable grounding in producing work on a personal but professional scale. These final steps will help me get to where I want to be as a creator, gaining and achieving knowledge along with expertise- so that I can make a personally significant impact on the world and therefore, live a dream that I've had ever since I could pick up a pencil.

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8 Artist Statements We Love

• August 24, 2015
• Artful Resources
• artist's statement

“Hey, that was a good artist statement!”

It’s a sentiment you don’t hear very often, and yet it’s what we found ourselves saying after reading the statements below. Artist statements don’t have to be a source of fear (for the writer) and boredom (for the reader)! See a few examples of strong artist statements below, and below that, a discussion of what makes them good.

Andy Yoder, sculptor:  “Many people take great comfort in the bathroom towels being the same color as the soap, toilet paper, and tiles. It means there is a connection between them, and an environment of order. Home is a place not only of comfort, but of control. This sense of order, in whatever form it takes, acts as a shield against the unpredictability and lurking chaos of the outside world.

My work is an examination of the different forms this shield takes, and the thinking that lies behind it. I use domestic objects as the common denominators of our personal environment. Altering them is a way of questioning the attitudes, fears and unwritten rules which have formed that environment and our behavior within it.”

Nancy McIntyre, silk screen artist: “I like it when a place has been around long enough that there is a kind of tension between the way it was originally designed to look and the way it looks now, as well as a tension between the way it looks to whoever is caring for it and the way it looks to me. Trouble is, the kinds of places I find most appealing keep getting closed or torn down.

What do I want to say with my art?

Celebrate the human, the marks people make on the world. Treasure the local, the small-scale, the eccentric, the ordinary: whatever is made out of caring. Respect what people have built for themselves. Find the beauty in some battered old porch or cluttered, human-scale storefront, while it still stands.”

(Was this post helpful? For more resources, subscribe to The Art League Blog newsletter here or check out our Artful Resources archive .)

Dawn Benedetto, jeweler:  “Poppi is my fun and clever alter ego. It’s a line of jewelry that doesn’t take life too seriously. The glass and sterling rings are my invention and are unique in that they stretch to fit most everyone. Poppi adds a splash of color to jeans or an extra spark to ignite a little black dress; heck, it’ll even brighten up a trip to the grocery store.

If nothing else, it’s a statement. Poppi laughs. Poppi flirts. Poppi screams. Poppi says it all without you saying a thing.”

Diana Chamberlain, ceramicist: “I work in porcelain for its suppleness, delicacy and strength. Porcelain’s willingness to be transformed, both in form and texture, makes it a perfect medium for exploring the iconic meaning of dress and the concept of shelter.”

Margaret Cerutti, painter: “Capturing the light is everything! As a plein air painter, it is always the light that I remember most about any location. It is my inspiration.

Its elusive quality can transform a figure or a landscape in just a matter of seconds. I strive to convey that sense of place by capturing its fleeting magic.”

Alison Sigethy, glass artist: “Getting outside is good for the soul. Through my artwork, I try to bring the outside in. While I make no attempt to portray actual plants or animals, I do want my creations to look like they could have lived or grown somewhere. Living with beautiful objects that pay tribute to the natural world reminds us to slow down and helps us reconnect with nature.”

Charlene Fuhrman-Schulz, sumi-é artist: “My subject matter is nature, whether it is a traditional landscape or a bird and flower painting. I use traditional materials, ink and brush on rice paper, to capture movement and life — making the brush dance and the ink sing. Everything is captured in the spontaneous dance and movement of the brush as it meets the rice paper. There is no going back and correcting when painting with ink and rice paper.”

Pete McCutchen, photographer: “I decontextualize. Then, I reconstruct.

Looking past the obvious, close observation and engagement of the subject is my process. The challenge is to see beyond the distraction of the conspicuous to capture its unique self. Some of my subjects are quite beautiful, others less so. My goal is to inspire those who see my work to look more carefully at the world around them, to discover beauty in unusual places.”

So what makes these artist statements work?

What these artist statements do

• keep it short
• grab the reader’s interest with the first sentence
• introduce the author’s personality and enthusiasm
• give a hint about the why of the artwork
• use the first person (I, me, mine — this is not a strict rule, but it does seem to help the author write a more straightforward, readable statement)

What these artist statements don’t do

• summarize the resume found elsewhere on the website
• give a physical description of artwork photographed elsewhere on the website
• sound generic
• use “art speak”

Some questions to think about when writing your statement

• What keeps you coming back to the studio, day after day?
• What’s the best way someone has responded to your artwork (comment in a guest book, at an exhibit, etc.)
• What questions are you asked most frequently about your work?
• What’s your artist story? (as opposed to your biography and CV)
• Who is your art for?

More resources

Telling your story, and your artwork’s story, increases its value. Here are some other blog posts you might be interested in:

• How to Create an Artist Website
• The Zero-Budget Guide to Photographing Artwork
• Email Newsletters for Artists in Three Steps
• Starting an Artist Blog
• What To Post (and What Not To) As an Artist on Social Media
• 33 Ideas for Artists’ Pinterest Boards

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Fine Art Personal Statement

Sample Fine Art Personal Statement

Vincent Van Gogh once said that ‘There is no blue without yellow and without orange”. From a young age I have been fascinated by the concept of colour and, for me, this quotation foregrounds the importance of colour and mixing in art. I am particularly interested in the way in which mixing colour can function as medium for conveying different ideas through artistic matter. Throughout my education I have been preoccupied with the connection between the mixing of colour and the evoking of particular emotions. The prospect of embarking upon a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art excites me as I feel that it would allow me the perfect opportunity to further explore the aspects of Fine Art that interest me most, whilst developing my own personal artistic style.

I have a prolific portfolio of related work experience which has helped me develop my time management skills, whilst confirming my passion for Fine Art. For over two years I worked as a sales assistant and art director in an art based retail environment. Furthermore, in this position I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to organise and supervise the numerous art exhibitions that were offered. This not only gave me the opportunity to exercise and develop my organisational skills, but also gave me a valuable insight into the world of Fine Art. This insight confirmed my passion for the subject and further motivated me in my quest to obtain a degree in Fine Art. This degree is particularly important to me as in the future I hope to be able to combine it with my work experience and start a career as a Curator. I have spent over three years at my most recent job, a Catering Assistant, this demonstrates my excellent work ethic and commitment. This position has also allowed me to improve my English language and communication skills.

I attended High School in 2003 with particularly high marks in both English Language and Fine Art. I have also obtained a GCSE in English conversation. Attending university in a foreign country is particularly important to me as if successful, I would be the first person in my family to study abroad. Furthermore, I feel that my previous experiences in the British education system foreshadow the way in which I am able to adapt to new conditions of study, thus highlighting my versatility.

It is clear that my passion for Fine Art extends beyond the classroom: last summer I took part in numerous competitions offered in London, including the ‘Royal Summer Exhibition’ and the ‘Inspired’ competition offered by the Victoria and Albert Museum. These experiences have been extremely useful as they have taught me the importance of producing work with respect to deadlines, a skill which is invaluable in an undergraduate environment. Entering such competitions has also allowed me to develop my aesthetic eye and experiment with different artistic techniques. I have drawn inspiration from artists such as Naum Gabo, Jackson Pollock and Hazel Brook and I would relish the opportunity to explore their work further.

In addition to achieving a National College of Open Network level three diploma in art and design, I am currently enrolled on a Foundation Degree course. I am intend to finish this in March 2012 and I am predicted to gain a higher degree level mark. Furthermore, my Foundation course has not only allowed me to develop pieces of Fine Art from scratch but also helped me to work in a group and co-operate with my classmates. Regular critique sessions with my peers have highlighted the importance of constructive criticism, whilst honing my editing skills. I thrive on my peer’s feedback and am excited about the opportunity of meeting and interacting with other students that are as passionate about Fine Art as I am.

We hope this sample Fine Art personal statement has been helpful in writing your own.

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How To Write An Artist Statement: Tips From The Art Experts

Published on

A s a professional artist, you need to have more than your work to get around in the art world. Along with your portfolio, you should have an artist statement available at a moment’s notice. An artist statement should be considered just as important as your works.

WHY DO YOU NEED AN ARTIST STATEMENT?

An artist statement is most often the front line of communication between an artist and the public. It will be used when you submit your portfolio to competitions, galleries, and museums. It may sometimes be displayed when people are viewing your works in person or on your website. If it’s online, your artist statement will be read by people from all over the world.

Useful Article: How To Create A Professional Portfolio

There are many paths to becoming an artist, through school or an apprenticeship, or through inspiration and self-teaching but no matter how you got there, being a professional artist means that you have to have an artist statement. If you have never written a statement before, or aren’t sure that your current statement is up to art world standards, it can be a quite daunting task to compose one.

Luckily, Agora Experts are here to help. Compiling years of experience in the art world, they are more than happy to share what they’ve learned.

Here are some valuable tips for writing an artist’s statement:

KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE

CONTENT FOR YOUR ARTIST STATEMENT

Between 150-200 words (two paragraphs) is the best length for a statement that is going to be published. It is long enough to let a viewer learn more about you and your work, but not too long that they can’t follow your story and get distracted.

What information does an artist’s statement need to include? There are three elements to consider: the “how,” the “what,” and the “why.” There should be enough information in your artist statement that someone can begin to imagine the art that you make without having it in front of them.

The ‘How’ refers to how you created your works. Many visitors are interested in knowing about your artistic process. Describe your works; what colors do you use, do you make large marks or small marks, or do you use blending so there are no visible marks at all? If you’re a photographer, what kind of tools are integral to your process?

Are your paintings abstract? Portraits? Do you take photos of landscapes? What is your imagery? When people describe what you make, what do they say? Describe the content of your works in a general way to flow from how you work to what you make.

Why do you make what you make? What does your life say about your work and your work say about your life? What symbols do you use and why? Explain the influences behind the meanings of your works.

You don’t have to have the same amount of each type of information, but it is a good idea to have part of your statement devoted to each of these categories. However, if one category seems far more relevant to your work than the others, feel free to emphasize it in your statement. You can put as much or as little of each category as you like; if your works are about the medium then you can focus more on how you make your works and if it is more about the “why” and your inspiration, focus on that. Balance your content in any way you need to.

Write down the answers to these questions on your own and then cut them down do the absolute essentials.

Once you have your content, then you can move to style.

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STYLE: THE THREE C’S OF STYLE

Every artist statement must follow the three C’s of style: they should be clear , concise , and consistent.

Use accessible vocabulary; keep in mind that your readers may not be scholars, artists, or art historians. Write like you’re speaking to a person on the street, somebody who goes to museums “every now and then,” as many of your viewers will fall into that category. Make sure the content in your artist statement is not too complex or technical. This will intimidate your audience.

Don’t go on for pages and pages about your work. Even the most interested person will get lost in too much information. You want your statement to pull the viewer in, but you don’t want to bore them.

The average museum and gallery visitor spends 5 to 15 seconds looking at each artwork, according to numerous museum surveys. You want your statement to be brief enough that they can get the essential information in that time, and that their flow isn’t too disrupted when they stop to read the statement in full.

Be consistent

Make sure that what you say in your artist’s statement matches the works that are going to be on display. If you also have a press release or biography available, make sure that your statement doesn’t contradict these texts at all. Keep updating your artist statement as you grow and evolve as an artist.

REMINDER:  An artist statement MUST be in the first person, everything is “I” not “he/she/they.” Imagine your statement is having a conversation with a viewer, it is speaking for you, and you would always say “I did this.”

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

Write out your statement a few different ways and think about which one best describes you and your work. Read your statement out loud to make sure it flows properly. Read it to people familiar with you and your work and listen to their comments.

If you are represented by a gallery, or if you have an agent, see if they are available to help you with your statements. Agora Gallery, for example, often helps artists edit their statements. If you don’t feel like you’re the best writer, have someone help you correct your grammar and make sure the artist statement says what you want it to say.

REMINDER:  If you are sending your statement somewhere with a word requirement (usually between 150-200 words) take their advice and write at least that much. Whatever word count they give you is likely the minimum for certain publications, and you don’t want to be left out because you didn’t provide enough text. Many organizations have similar requirements, so you don’t want to have to re-work your statement every time you send it somewhere new.

TIPS FOR NON-ENGLISH SPEAKERS

Write your statement in your native language first, and then translate it. You can use a professional translator, or you can try to translate it with an application online. Just be sure that you have it double checked by a native speaker of whatever language your statement will be published in before you submit. Don’t try to limit yourself to your foreign language vocabulary. Do your very best to compose something for yourself.

PRESENTATION: FONT, PAPER, DESIGN

Once you have your statement ready to go, you need to prepare it for submission. You may submit to a gallery, a contest, a local collective; it doesn’t matter, they all will need your statement, and you want your statement to do its job. Whether it’s a paper submission, or online, here are some tips for making sure your statement makes it to the correct people.

Most submissions to galleries these days are online, like ours, which makes worrying about how your statement looks a no-brainer. The online forms will take care of that for you. If you have the information there, then that’s all you’ll need.

If you are submitting a printed statement, here are some tips for making it up to the art world standards:

KEEP YOUR ARTIST STATEMENT CLEAN

Make sure your paper is clean, crisp, and classic. You want to look and have your materials look as professional as possible. You are essentially engaging in a business when you submit your work to a gallery and you want to present yourself the same way.

Plain printer paper or basic letterhead is the best way to make a professional impression. You don’t need fancy paper, paper you made by hand, or special design paper to submit your statement. It may seem eye-catching at first, but in reality most fancy paper designs are distracting from any important content. If it looks like a party invitation, chances are no gallery will take it seriously. If you want to go the extra mile and use nice stationery, do not go for something with an elaborate design. A thick card stock can be nice, but keep the paper white or off-white so that it is not too distracting from the content.

KEEP YOUR ARTIST STATEMENT READABLE

The same rule applies to fonts. Make sure your font is clear and able to be read easily. You can never go wrong with basic fonts like Arial or Times New Roman. Fancy fonts can take away from your content. It doesn’t matter if the font matches what you think your art feels like: if a gallery owner or buyer can’t read it, then it hurts more than it helps. You want the communication to be as easy as possible between you and your audience, so make sure that your statement is readable.

Along the same lines, do NOT handwrite your statement. Very few galleries will even read a handwritten statement as it is unprofessional. It’s also a lot of work to handwrite an artist statement, and if you’re submitting to multiple galleries, writing out all those statements is a waste of your time. It’s easiest to type it out.

If you don’t have regular access to a computer or a word processing program, you can always work on your statement online and pay a few cents to have it printed at your local copy center.

AFTER YOUR SUBMISSION

For now, you’ve done all you can. It is now in the hands of the gallery manager, collector or client that you’ve presented it to.

As you grow and evolve as an artist, you’ll want to revisit these steps as you revise your artist statement to reflect your current work. Remember, your brilliant work only does half the job. Your professionalism and other important things like your artist statement, CV and business cards make up the other half.

Useful Articles: The Artist CV and Artist Business Cards

As a promotional gallery, we take pride in the diverse group of artists from across the globe represented by us. Want to give your art more time, and leave the marketing and promotional hassles to someone else? Book an online career development consultation meeting today.

Join the discussion!   Do let us know if you have any other suggestions about writing the perfect artist statement. You can also ask your questions in the comments or email us at [email protected]! <img height=”1″ width=”1″ alt=”” style=”display:none” src=”https://www.facebook.com/tr?ev=6027680136188&cd[value]=0.00&cd[currency]=USD&noscript=1″ />

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70 responses to “How To Write An Artist Statement: Tips From The Art Experts”

I appreciate, lead to I discovered exactly what I was taking a look for. You’ve ended my 4 day lengthy hunt! God Bless you man. Have a great day. Bye

Excellent Tips! Thanks for sharing it…

Keep up the superb works guys I’ve incorporated you guys to my blogroll.

Thank you so much for your great information, It is too useful for me. Thanks again!

I couldn’t refrain from commenting. Well written!

I found this site a little while ago, I´m from Perú, I´m an sculptor and I am learning a lot from your tips and suggestions. There is plenty info to read and learn from. This is a great site! Thank you so much.

I am a Mexican artist. Thank you for sharing these tips to write an artist statement. It’s very easy and helpful.

I have struggled with this as an artist but this article is quite an eye opener. Thanks for sharing this, it is quite helpful to me.

Hola, soy un Acuarelista emergente, y una plataforma artística me ha pedido un Statement artístico , preparé uno pero no estoy seguro de haberlo escrito bién. Puedo enviarlo y Uds me dicen si está bien ?? Muchas Gracias ¡¡¡

Our services are limited to our represented artists, but we’re sure that our community of readers can offer you their advice so feel welcome to share it in the comments below.

Thank you this article is truly helpful.

really helpful!

As a artist, I read all article w/ this title so easily understand and organizations in my mind.

This is what sicken me with visual art. Visual art should be about visual art. Your art should talk from it self. You shouldn’t need to say nor write at all.

That being said for what modern art is this article is very well made and insightfull.Well done!

this was an amazing read, thanks for providing this such great article.

That’s an interesting article with really cool suggestions. Thanks a lot for sharing

I am an artist based in Nigeria you website and tutorials has been very helpful, thank you.

The world of art is really awesome…My father is a great artist and i loved his drawings very much…Thanks for taking the time to discuss this..

Your brilliant work only does half the job. Your professionalism and other important things like your artist statement, CV and business cards make up the other half.

Thank you for your article. When making a submission without a bio, should you sign the Artist Statement?

You should sign your artist statement so that anyone who reads it or sees it separately from all your other documents or artworks, will know to whom it belongs.

Thanks for such an amazing explanation. As a reader and a viewer, I like to know what artist think about his/her work. So such explanations in written form help me to understand better their work and they gives me a feeling of being involved in art at least somehow.

Thanks for the article. But I still can not understand why I have to write an artist statement? It’s stupid. If I wanted to write to express myself I would have been a writer. The whole idea of ​​my art is to say things visually. Why can not people just look at my art and take away any experiences they will?

Generally the artist statement usually gives the viewer a bit of context with regards to the art.

Yeah, good luck with that!

Thanks. I’ve found some very useful tips for myself.

I just thought about it today.

Nice post, containing some really useful tips. Once I was searching for some assistance in my online test writing and found 300writers.com. These guys helped me to get an A

Very helpful, thanks

Thank you, Dennis! Feel free to let us know if you’d like us to cover a specific topic.

.This was e extremely helpful. Thank You

What a great site! Thanks for all the detailed, useful info here. Super helpful.

Hei! A great peace of article! Got me inspired to look for different ways to express myself and trust my inner inspiration indeed. Thanks a lot!

Thanks For Providing good and usable information in your brief article.Will definitely a good guideline for everyone in the field of Art and paintings

Congratulation, all this tips are very helpful for presentation of artist, I will give this for other artist that belong to a Chilean Visual Women Artist MUART organization that I belong , Thanks.

Dear Solange, thank you for visiting!

Congratulation, all this tips are very helpful for artist. Thank you.

Thank you so much! This website was just what I needed to help me write my first reasonable Artist’s Statement. I’d been at a loss as how to start, or what exactly to write.

Dear LW, you are very welcome, thanks for stopping by!

I’m struggling with mine a bit and have been told many times to write an artist statement in the third person rather than first person. Is there validity to that?

Dear Vincent, as we state in the article, the statement MUST be in the first person. Your artist statement is your conversation with your audience, an introduction of yourself, and it can not be in the third person.

Vincent, I agree that the statement needs to be in first person, but it may be helpful to write the first draft in third person. That exercise may very well free you up to be more objective. Then you can switch it back. Just a thought.

This article has been a great help to me. On question though; I see artist’s bio’s and their statements on the same page, When I present this information to a gallery, should I put them on the same page or on separate sheets of paper?

Hi Lisa, we recommend that you keep your bio separate from the artist statement. It’s a very important part of your professional portfolio and we’ve written a separate advice article on writing an artist biography. Take a look at these articles, they will prove very useful if you’re working on a portfolio. How to Create a Professional Portfolio and Writing an Artist Biography . Let us know how it goes!

This is of great help to me as I have never written an artist statement. All I have been doing is draw what I can in my attempt to improve. But this would change things. thanks for the help.

Dear Anthony, you’re more than welcome!

great website!!! I love it<3

Clearly articulated advice. Very helpful! Thank you! I like your website. One always can find many very interesting articles.

I’m trying help my 11 year old daughter write an artist statement for a school art project that is going to be submitted to a contest. I’m at a total loss. This all sounds good, but for an 11 year old, the How, What and Why questions are pretty abstract. I need help! “I chose the color purple because it’s my favorite color” is probably not the kind of thing that the teacher is looking for.

Hi TJ, it’s important to mold the content of the artist statement to your needs and situation. Talk with your daughter, listen to what she has to say about why and how she creates what she does, and together you’ll be able to come up with a wonderful artist statement.

Very good advice. I was told to re-write my artist statement and didn’t exactly know what to implement other than what I had done before. Your article gave me the clarity I needed. Thank you!!

Dear Gila, we’re happy to help!

Great post, indeed. I have been looking for an info that would help me create my new art portfolio much better than the old one. However, I have a doubt about one thing. I mean about HOW? WHAT? and WHY? It seems to me strange to start a talk about my art with someone with HOW? The more natural way for me is to talk first about WHAT I do, then WHY I do that and HOW is the last point. My question is if that changed order I have proposed is equally acceptable?

Dear Danuta, this is a great question. As we mention in the article, you should balance the content of your artist statement in any way you need to. After all, this is YOUR artist statement. If you feel that you need to talk about the WHAT first, then this is what you should do, especially if it feels more natural to you.

Great article…just what I needed to know…thank you.

great article!!!

i so needed this right now. thanx. this will help me a lot.

Beautiful article. Very helpful. Can you please provide a couple of example writeups?

Thanks. This was helpful. I appreciate your time spent finding and posting this for the class. You are a good guy. Kisses, ba

Thanks, this is helpful.

Your comments are right on and remind me that from time to time I need to evaluate my statements. Thanks

You’re welcome, Jackie. We’re glad we could help!

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