Business of Art
There are multiple elements every artist should have in their portfolio. The most powerful is the artist statement. (Other documents will be discussed in later issues.)
Your statement should be an informative, yet concise description that tells the reader what you do, how you do it, and why you do it. If you haven’t already completed your statement, start now. If you do have a statement, and would like to improve it, read on!
Why is an artist statement so important? Because, when properly written, it conveys to the reader important details about you and also your work. By thoughtfully addressing each of the three questions above, you can provide insight for the collector as to why your work is worth owning.
You may find it easier to get started by just jotting down notes, then go back and flesh it out. In describing what it is you do, include the medium, style, subject, scale, and note any particular areas of specialization.
Next, list the method and materials you use, mentioning any unusual process, technique, tools/equipment, time required, and/or work location.
And finally, explain why the work has meaning to you. This portion of your statement is often the most compelling, as it helps the reader know more about you as an individual. Maybe you started drawing as a child, influenced by a family member, and later earned your fine arts degree. Or you took a class at a craft school on a lark, and then dove straight in, knowing deep in your bones that you had found what you were meant to be doing. Perhaps a particular insight influenced your choice of materials. Describe the feelings you have while you are creating your work.
Some artists are introverted and uncomfortable beating their own drum. However, this is one time you must not hold back! Write, review, edit. Read it aloud. Ask a few close friends to read it and give helpful feedback.
Finally, recognize that as you continue to grow as an artist, your statement may need to be updated. Any time you are preparing to submit to a new gallery, competition, or other opportunity, read your statement aloud slowly to yourself. It can be a very powerful asset, so take the time to make changes as needed. You won’t regret it!
