Writing for Artists by Sarah Detweiler
Navigating Art Submissions
Many artists are missing out on opportunities to show their work because of limited knowledge or confidence in the process. This quick guide addresses the writing essentials to prepare an artist statement, bio, and CV.
Sarah Detweiler | Guest Curator for Issue No. 05 of the PXV Art Mag
Writing an Artist Statement
The reason I find writing an authentic artist statement so important is because I have found that it is this step of the submission process that has left me paralyzed and procrastinating.
Length should be a couple of paragraphs (About 150-200 words).
This is an opportunity to talk about your art in your tone of voice.
Speak in the first person.
Think about statements that others have made about your work.
Don't try to force art language.
Answer These Questions:
How do you make your work? (Process)
What do you make? (Content)
Why do you make it? (Concept, inspiration, influences)
Writing an Artist Bio
Length depends on the submission, but usually about 200-250 words.
Have different versions depending on what it is being used for.
Speak in the third person.
Answer These Questions:
Where are you based/practice art? You may also mention where you were born and raised.
What kind of work do you make?
What are your influences?
Where did you study? Mention education if relevant. Otherwise, you might mention that you are self-taught.
What is your experience? (Exhibitions-group or solo, events, art fairs, etc.)
Have you been interviewed, featured, or published?
Have you won any awards?
Briefly mention your work or current project.
Where can we see your work? (Website, Instagram, etc.)
Writing an Artist CV
(Curriculum Vitae (CV) is Latin for "course of life.")
This can become a great practice in realizing how much you’ve accomplished! Don’t be modest in your achievements. List things even if it seems like an insignificant event.
Header:
Name, Phone Number, Address, Website, Email Address, Social Media Handles
Education:
Year achieved, School, Degree
Exhibition Experience:
Separate by Solo and Group shows
Date (month/s, year), Gallery or venue, Title of show, Location (City, State)
Awards:
Date, Title of Award, Piece of art that was awarded, Location (City, State)
Publications
Date, Name of Publication, Title of article, Issue, page number or web address to link
Features
Date, Featured by _______________ , where you were featured
Always list your experience with the most recent at the top and in chronological order.
Lastly, get a second pair of eyes on what you’ve written and then…