Have you ever felt stuck while writing your bio or artist statement? Do you know the difference between the two? Often, they end up mixed-up or even combined, along with your CV. In today’s post we’re going to establish the key differences between the two and dissect the important points that conform a successful, clear bio and artist statement.
Artist biography
It is a short paragraph written in the third person about you and your career as an art practitioner.
It normally contains where and when you were born as well as where do you currently live.
Mention whether you have formal art education or are self-taught is encouraged.
It should also include a few lines on the key media and themes to your practice.
Additional information presented in a short way, like special techniques used or artistic inspiration, is also welcomed.
You should also include a selection of your most important solo and group exhibitions ordered from the most recent one.
Mention if your work is any public or private collections.
Include any relevant membership for art and cultural organisations to which you belong.
Artist statement
It is a crucial piece of writing that you will need for most applications to grants, residencies, open calls, as well as to include to press releases, your website and to present yourself to gallerists, curators and collectors.
It could vary in size from a 200-word paragraph to a one side page. You should adapt it depending on where and who you send it to.
It should contain an introduction and description of your art, including the recurrent subjects, ideas, media, influences and processes embedded in your practice. You can also expand on why you are interested in these concerns, techniques or other aspects relevant to your work.
You can also introduce quotes from art critics or press reviews on your work if you wish to.
It should not contain your work or exhibition history, nor your career as an artist as this should be included in either your artist bio or CV.
It is important that it is written in a concise and plain manner.
You can use either the first or the third person to write it.
Hope this is of help and more posts soon!
PD: if you have any topics you'd like me to cover write them in the comments below.
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