Writing As Discovery: Thought Lab I

An artist's statement is a written description of your creative work/practice. Its purpose is to provide the viewer with information and context about your work. They help you communicate about and share your practice with others. You can't control how someone will experience/interpret your work; however, your statement can provide contextual information to those who engage.

Your artist's statement should describe (1.) what you made, (2.) how you made it, and (3.) why.

Some tips and things to consider:

• What does your work mean to you? What are you trying to represent?
• Discuss your choice and implementation of materials.
• What is your process?
• What is your inspiration?
• Traditionally, artists' statements are written using the first-person perspective.
• You can find them in exhibition materials like press releases, catalogs, etc.

Learning how to write an artist's statement is highly useful, as they are typically needed when:

• Exhibiting your work in a gallery
• Applying for grants, residencies, or awards
• Creating a portfolio or website
• Participating in art fairs