How to Write an Artist Statement That Actually Helps You
An artist statement is not poetry, a biography, or a defense. It is best used to add clarity and depth to your body of work.
1. Start With What the Work Is Exploring
Instead of:
“I have always loved art…”
Begin with:
“This body of work explores…”
Ground the reader immediately in the work itself.
2. Be Specific, Not Grand
Avoid:
“Exploring the human condition”
“Investigating time and space”
Instead:
“This series examines how urban architecture reshapes memory.”
Specificity signals seriousness.
3. Keep It Under 250 Words (Unless Requested Otherwise)
Jurors read dozens (sometimes hundreds) of statements.
Brevity is respect.
4. Avoid Explaining What Is Visually Obvious
If the work shows layered paint, do not write:
“I use layered paint.”
Instead explain:
Why
To what end
In pursuit of what idea
5. End With Direction
Conclude with:
Where the work is going
What question remains unresolved
What is currently in development
Statements should feel alive, not final.
