Ok so today's topic is super duper daunting to many artists, but it really should not be... I'm talking of course about writing an artist statement... Yikes!

Now I know this video is a bit longer than usual, but I didn't just want to share some boring blah checklist like you can find anywhere online. I want to motivate you and give examples and get you excited about talking about your artwork because Lesson One is literally that no one will get excited about your work unless you are first!

You should definitely watch the video first and then this handy dandy little list below is going to make a lot more sense. I just wanted to make sure that you as my audience have all the great info organized here so you don't necessarily have to take notes during the vid.

Writing an Artist Statement:

1. Why?

Builds a deeper connection with your audience
Audience likes insight; likes to be 'in the know'
Your message is not always obvious
BE EXCITED ABOUT YOUR OWN WORK!!!!
GIVE PEOPLE A REASON TO CARE!!

2. What?

5 Q's to Touch On:

Are there any unusual processes or materials (especially if the medium is a direct correlation to the 'voice' of your work)?
What exactly is the subject and what does it mean to you?
How does the subject affect you and/or how would you like it to affect the viewer? **why did you create this _______ to represent that ________
What in your personal life or history made you gravitate to this subject?
Is there anything you hope to accomplish by sharing this work with the world?

3a. How to Answer?

Brainstorming/ Mood board creating + At home art show to view your works together
Choose 2-4 most interesting topics
Freely write about each

3b. How to Write It?

Make sure to answer 'How/What/Why did you create?'
Connect those thoughts together
Write a strong intro with a hook to captivate your audience
No more than 400 words + great to have an abbreviated version too
Keep your paragraphs short and concise
Tone is conversational and intelligent without being lofty
This is not your bio!
Be brave and bold with adjectives but not too fluffy or flowery
Triple check grammar and spelling
Put away for one week then reread with fresh eyes and update
Have at least 3 people critique your statement
Ta-daaa! DONE!

Links to Help You:

Hope that gets you started in the write direction! See what I did there ;) Happy brainstorming!

originally published on August 2, 2018