how to write an artist statement resume

Artist Resume – Examples, Sample Templates, Tips

• Resume Format
• October 18, 2024
• Art & Design

Artist Resume : Creating a standout artist resume is essential for showcasing your unique talents and experiences in a competitive industry. This article provides valuable examples, sample templates, and expert tips to help you craft a compelling resume that captures the attention of galleries, clients, and employers. Elevate your artistic career by presenting your skills effectively and professionally.

Artist Resume – Key Points

Artist resume – objective examples.

Aspiring artist seeking an internship to gain hands-on experience, develop creative skills, and contribute innovative ideas to a dynamic team while enhancing my portfolio and artistic vision.

Recent art graduate eager to leverage fresh perspectives and strong foundational skills in a collaborative environment, aiming to create impactful visual narratives that resonate with diverse audiences.

Mid-level artist with five years of experience in multimedia design, seeking to elevate brand storytelling through compelling visuals, while fostering collaboration and creativity within a forward-thinking organization.

Senior artist with over ten years of experience in leading creative projects, dedicated to mentoring emerging talent and driving innovative design solutions that exceed client expectations and enhance brand identity.

Versatile artist skilled in various mediums, aiming to secure a position that allows for artistic exploration and collaboration, while contributing to projects that inspire and engage audiences on multiple levels.

Artist Resume Description Examples

Versatile artist specializing in mixed media, blending traditional techniques with modern concepts to create thought-provoking pieces that engage and inspire diverse audiences across various platforms.

Dedicated visual artist with a passion for storytelling through vibrant illustrations, utilizing a unique style that captivates viewers and evokes emotional connections to the narratives portrayed.

Innovative sculptor with expertise in sustainable materials, crafting intricate designs that challenge perceptions of art while promoting environmental awareness and encouraging dialogue within the community.

Talented digital artist proficient in graphic design and animation, creating visually stunning content that enhances brand identity and captivates target audiences through engaging visual storytelling.

Creative painter with a focus on abstract expressionism, using bold colors and dynamic brushwork to convey deep emotions and provoke thought, showcased in numerous exhibitions and galleries.

Summary Statements for Artist Resume

Creative and passionate artist with a strong foundation in various mediums, seeking an internship to further develop skills and contribute fresh ideas to innovative projects in a collaborative environment.

Emerging artist with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts, skilled in digital and traditional techniques, eager to bring unique perspectives and creativity to a dynamic art team or project.

Versatile mid-level artist with over five years of experience in graphic design and illustration, adept at transforming concepts into compelling visuals that engage and inspire diverse audiences.

Senior artist with a decade of experience in multimedia art and design, recognized for leading successful projects and mentoring emerging talent, committed to pushing creative boundaries and achieving excellence.

Accomplished artist with extensive experience in fine arts and commercial projects, known for innovative techniques and a strong portfolio, dedicated to creating impactful art that resonates with viewers.

Entry Level Artist Resume for Freshers

Contact Information Hal Jordan (201) 555-0123 2828 Maple Lane, Hillcrest, TX 45678 [email protected]

Creative and passionate entry-level artist seeking to leverage artistic skills and innovative ideas in a dynamic environment. Eager to contribute to collaborative projects and grow within a reputable organization.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Visual Arts

University of Texas, Austin, TX

Graduated: May 2023

Creative Studio, Austin, TX

June 2022 – August 2022

• Assisted in the development of visual concepts for various projects, including branding and marketing materials.
• Collaborated with senior artists to create illustrations and graphics for client presentations.
• Participated in brainstorming sessions, contributing fresh ideas and perspectives.

Freelance Artist

Self-Employed, Hillcrest, TX

September 2021 – Present

• Created custom artwork for clients, including portraits, murals, and digital illustrations.
• Managed project timelines and client communications to ensure satisfaction and timely delivery.
• Developed a personal portfolio showcasing diverse styles and techniques.
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
• Strong drawing and painting skills (traditional and digital)
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
• Time management and organizational skills
• Knowledge of color theory and composition

Certification

Certified Adobe Photoshop Specialist

Adobe, 2023

• “Art for Change” Community Mural Project: Collaborated with local artists to design and paint a mural that promotes social awareness in the Hillcrest community.
• “Digital Dreams” Exhibition: Curated and displayed a collection of digital art pieces at the University of Texas Art Gallery, showcasing innovative techniques and themes.
• English (Fluent)
• Spanish (Conversational)

Available upon request.

Mid-Level Experienced Artist Resume – Sample

Oliver queen.

312-555-4567

2929 Willow Street, Brookside, FL 56789

[email protected]

Creative and passionate artist with over 5 years of experience in various artistic mediums, seeking to leverage my skills and expertise to contribute to innovative projects and collaborate with like-minded professionals in a dynamic environment.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

University of Florida, Gainesville, FL

Graduated: May 2018

Brookside, FL

June 2018 – Present

• Developed and executed a diverse range of artistic projects, including murals, illustrations, and digital art for various clients.
• Collaborated with local businesses to create promotional artwork, enhancing brand visibility and customer engagement.
• Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction.

Art Instructor

Brookside Community Center, Brookside, FL

January 2019 – Present

• Designed and implemented art programs for children and adults, fostering creativity and artistic skills in participants.
• Organized community art exhibitions to showcase student work, increasing community involvement and appreciation for the arts.
• Proficient in various artistic mediums, including painting, drawing, and digital design.
• Strong understanding of color theory, composition, and visual storytelling.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a proven ability to work effectively in team settings.
• Familiar with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) and other design software.
• First Place, Brookside Art Festival, 2021
• Honorable Mention, Statewide Art Competition, 2020
• Dean’s List, University of Florida, 2016-2018
• Member, National Art Honor Society
• Certified Art Instructor, Brookside Community Center, 2019
• Community Mural Project : Led a team of artists to create a large-scale mural in downtown Brookside, enhancing the area’s cultural appeal.
• Digital Art Series : Developed a series of digital illustrations exploring themes of nature and conservation, showcased in an online gallery.

5-10+ Years Experienced Artist Resume Sample Format

Dick grayson.

(415) 555-7890

3030 Sycamore Avenue, Cedarville, WA 67890

Dynamic and versatile artist with over 8 years of experience in various artistic disciplines, including illustration, graphic design, and digital art. Proven ability to conceptualize and execute creative projects that engage audiences and enhance brand identity. Strong collaborative skills with a passion for storytelling through visual mediums.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts

University of Washington, Seattle, WA

Graduated: May 2015

Work Experience

Senior Graphic Designer

Gotham Creative Agency, Gotham City, NY

• Lead design projects from concept to completion for diverse clients, resulting in a 30% increase in client satisfaction.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop branding strategies and marketing materials.
• Mentor junior designers, fostering a creative environment and enhancing team productivity.

Illustrator

Freelance, Various Clients

January 2016 – May 2018

• Created custom illustrations for books, magazines, and online publications, consistently meeting tight deadlines.
• Developed a unique style that attracted a loyal client base and increased repeat business by 40%.
• Participated in art shows and exhibitions, gaining recognition for innovative works.

Junior Graphic Designer

Wayne Enterprises, Gotham City, NY

June 2015 – December 2015

• Assisted in the design and production of marketing materials, including brochures, posters, and social media graphics.
• Conducted market research to inform design decisions and improve project outcomes.
• Collaborated with the marketing team to ensure brand consistency across all platforms.
• Strong illustration and digital painting skills
• Creative problem-solving and critical thinking
• Time management and project organization
• Best in Show, Gotham Art Festival, 2020
• Silver Award for Graphic Design, National Design Awards, 2019
• Dean’s List, University of Washington, 2013-2015
• Featured Artist, Cedarville Community Art Showcase, 2021
• Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) in Photoshop
• Graphic Design Certification, Skillshare
• “Heroes of Gotham” – A series of digital illustrations depicting iconic heroes, showcased in multiple online galleries.
• “The Art of Storytelling” – Developed a workshop for aspiring artists focusing on narrative-driven art, attended by over 100 participants.

Professional Affiliations

• Member, American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA)
• Member, National Cartoonists Society (NCS)

Required Skills for Artist Resume Job

• Proficient in various artistic mediums (e.g., painting, drawing, sculpture)
• Strong understanding of color theory and composition
• Excellent drawing and illustration skills
• Ability to conceptualize and develop original ideas
• Knowledge of digital art software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Corel Painter)
• Strong attention to detail and craftsmanship
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Effective time management and organizational skills
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Familiarity with art history and contemporary art trends
• Experience in art direction and project management
• Ability to adapt to different styles and techniques
• Understanding of marketing and self-promotion for artists
• Strong portfolio showcasing a range of work
• Ability to accept and incorporate constructive criticism

Action Verbs to Use in Artist Resume

• Created – Developed original artworks, showcasing unique artistic vision and style.
• Exhibited – Displayed works in galleries or shows, demonstrating professional recognition and engagement with the art community.
• Collaborated – Worked with other artists or organizations to produce joint projects, highlighting teamwork and creativity.
• Curated – Selected and organized artworks for exhibitions, showcasing expertise in art selection and presentation.
• Commissioned – Produced custom pieces for clients, emphasizing the ability to meet specific client needs and preferences.
• Instructed – Taught art classes or workshops, demonstrating leadership and the ability to share knowledge with others.
• Innovated – Introduced new techniques or concepts in artwork, reflecting a commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.
• Published – Contributed articles or features in art magazines or journals, establishing authority in the art field.
• Presented – Delivered talks or lectures about art, enhancing public speaking skills and sharing insights with audiences.
• Fundraised – Organized events or campaigns to raise money for art projects or community initiatives, showcasing dedication to the arts.
• Documented – Captured the process and evolution of artworks through photography or writing, emphasizing attention to detail.
• Transformed – Reimagined existing concepts or materials into new forms, highlighting creativity and adaptability.
• Promoted – Marketed artworks through social media or other platforms, demonstrating skills in self-promotion and audience engagement.
• Participated – Engaged in community art projects or initiatives, reflecting commitment to social impact through art.
• Advised – Provided guidance to emerging artists or organizations, showcasing mentorship and expertise in the art field.

Download Artist Resume – Free Templates

FAQs about Artist Resume

What should i include in my artist resume.

Your artist resume should include your name, contact information, an artist statement, education, exhibitions, awards, and relevant work experience. Be sure to highlight your artistic skills and any notable achievements that showcase your talent and dedication to your craft.

How is an artist resume different from a regular resume?

An artist resume focuses specifically on your artistic achievements and experiences, rather than general work history. It emphasizes your exhibitions, awards, and artistic skills, while a regular resume typically highlights job titles, responsibilities, and employment history in various industries.

How long should my artist resume be?

An artist resume should ideally be one to two pages long. Keep it concise and relevant, focusing on the most significant accomplishments and experiences that showcase your artistic journey and professional development.

Should I include my artist statement in my artist resume?

While it’s not mandatory, including a brief artist statement in your artist resume can provide context to your work and creative vision. It helps potential employers or galleries understand your artistic philosophy and the themes you explore in your art.

How often should I update my artist resume?

You should update your artist resume regularly, especially after significant achievements such as exhibitions, awards, or new skills acquired. Keeping your resume current ensures that you present the most accurate and compelling representation of your artistic career when opportunities arise.

In conclusion, an effective Artist Resume is essential for showcasing your unique talents and experiences. By including well-crafted sections such as objectives, summaries, education, skills, and achievements, you can create a compelling narrative that captivates potential employers. Utilize our free template and examples to elevate your application and stand out in the competitive art world. Start crafting your Artist Resume today!

Resume Tips

Choose the right format.

Select a resume format that best showcases your skills and experience. Common formats include chronological, functional, and combination resumes.

Tailor Your Resume

Customize your resume for each job application by highlighting relevant skills and experiences that match the job description.

Focus on Key Sections

Include essential sections such as contact information, professional summary or objective, work experience, education, skills, and relevant certifications.

Use Clear and Concise Language

Be concise and use action verbs to describe your accomplishments and responsibilities in each job role.

Quantify Achievements

Whenever possible, quantify your achievements with numbers or percentages to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

Highlight Transferable Skills

Emphasize transferable skills that are relevant to the job you're applying for, such as communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

Prioritize Readability

Ensure your resume is easy to read by using a clean and professional font, adequate white space, and bullet points for listing information.

Proofread Carefully

Avoid spelling and grammar errors by proofreading your resume multiple times or asking a trusted friend or colleague to review it.

Keep it Updated

Regularly update your resume with new experiences, skills, and accomplishments to reflect your most current qualifications.

Seek Feedback

Consider seeking feedback from career advisors, mentors, or professionals in your industry to improve your resume further.

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8 Artist Resume Examples & Writing Guide

Need help creating an artist resume that gets noticed? Our guide provides writing tips and 8 example resumes for painters, sculptors, illustrators and more. Learn how to effectively highlight your artistic skills, experience and achievements. Follow our advice to make your resume stand out to employers and clients, and improve your chances of landing opportunities.

A great resume is essential for every artist pursuing new opportunities. Whether applying for exhibitions, residencies, grants or gallery representation, your resume makes a critical first impression. It provides an overview of your artistic background, skills and accomplishments to help decision-makers quickly assess if you're a good fit.

However, artist resumes are a bit different than standard business resumes. They need to effectively summarize your creative work and experience within a concise, visually compelling format. What should you include in your artist resume? How do you organize and design it for maximum impact?

This guide provides 8 professional artist resume examples along with proven tips for writing and formatting your own. Discover how to structure your resume, what sections to feature, and ways to powerfully market your unique artistic qualifications. Follow these strategies to create a resume that grabs attention and sets you apart. Soon you'll have a stellar artist resume ready to send out and land exciting new art opportunities.

Common Responsibilities Listed on Artist Resumes

• Creating original artwork using various mediums such as painting, drawing, sculpture, or digital art
• Researching and developing concepts, styles, and techniques for new artistic projects
• Preparing and setting up materials, canvases, or workspaces for artistic creation
• Participating in art exhibitions, galleries, or shows to showcase and sell artwork
• Collaborating with clients, art directors, or curators to understand project requirements
• Maintaining a portfolio of completed works to present to potential clients or employers
• Marketing and promoting artwork through social media, websites, or networking events
• Staying current with trends, techniques, and developments in the art world

Resume ATS Scanner

Drop your resume file here to scan for ATS compatibility.

How to write a Resume Summary

The notion of extracting your vast array of experiences and talents into a concise summary or objective section may seem daunting or even insignificant to you as an artist. You might ask, "Why limit my expansive creativity into a few sentences?" It's beneficial to remember that this section serves as a spotlight on a stage, highlighting your key attributes to all who glance upon it.

The summary or objective section capacitates you to communicate a well-defined message about your professional self. It's a encapsulation of who you are as a professional artist, what you bring to the table, and how you can foster aesthetic beauty and affective impact with your artistic talent.

Weaved skillfully, it directs the reader (often the recruiter or your prospective employer) to appreciate your unique artistic pursuit and understand how it aligns with the opportunity at hand. It's an opportunity to showcase your authenticity, narrate your professional story and convey your career aspirations. This is the introduction to your professional self, setting the tone before diving into the more detailed information about your skills, experiences, and achievements.

Having clarity on three aspects would suffice to shape a robust objective: your expertise, your aspiration, and the value you bring. Let's delve into these aspects:

Your Expertise: Your expertise communicates your understanding and skills in your artistic domain. It encompasses your knowledge and talents that enable you to produce great art.

Your Aspiration: This statement demonstrates the direction you wish your career to take. It provides insight into the kind of opportunities, challenges, and growth you're looking forward to unlocking.

Your Value Proposition: Express what sets you apart from your fellow artists. It involves demonstrating the unique approach or perspective you bring to your craft and the resultant benefits.

While wording this section, keep it concise but expressive. Employ a vibrant, professional tone that resonates with your artistic nature. Simplified language can communicate your message effectively without loss of meaning or authenticity. Tempered use of artsy, technical jargon may ensure appreciation from those familiar with artistry while keeping it comprehensible for others.

Yet, do remember not to oversell. Maintain a balance of humility and confidence. Assert your artistic talents, experiences and visions without sounding boastful or desperate. Make it influential, not imposing.

Remember, just like a piece of art, there is no right or wrong way to create this summary or objective. Make it a reflection of you as an artist - unique, expressive, and impactful. By doing so, you are making your resume more than just a ‘piece of paper’, making it echo with your professional voice, and allowing it to reverberate through the corridors of your prospective career ventures.

Surely, the next stroke of your brush would be taking this dive into concisely portraying your professional panorama - just like how you do it on your canvas.

Strong Summaries

• Accomplished visual artist with more than a decade of experience in creating stunning, realistic oil paintings. Specializes in portraiture and landscape work, demonstrating superior technical skills and artistic vision.
• Versatile multimedia artist, skilled in traditional drawing, digital arts, and sculpture. Exhibited internationally, having a creative approach to ideas and divergent design solutions.
• Highly creative and multitalented 3D artist with extensive experience in multimedia, marketing, and print design. Exceptional collaborative and interpersonal skills with well-developed written and verbal communication abilities.
• Artistic professional with a focus on surrealistic styles and a penchant for color theory. Holds an MFA degree, with work displayed in solo and group exhibitions in top art galleries across the country.
• Globally recognized graffiti artist, known for creating large-scale public murals. My work encourages social interaction while also challenging viewers to contemplate issues like climate change and social justice.

Why these are strong ?

These examples are good because each one highlights the artist's unique artistic style, their extensive experience in their field, and their accomplishments like exhibitions. Using rich descriptive words showcases their personality as an artist. Through different focuses and achievements in the summary, it clearly directs to differentiating skills or unique selling points to stand out from others. Furthermore, these summaries also provide a glimpse of their engagement with the community or society, displaying a strong professional image.

Weak Summaries

• I am an artist who draws stuff and things. I make paintings, drawings, and sometimes sculptures.
• I am an artist looking for work. I am good at art and have been doing it for some time now, just looking for someone to recognize my talent.
• I am not a professional artist but I believe that my style is unique and appealing to many. I am determined to get my artworks to the customers.
• I'm a painter and I can draw. I have sold some paintings but I'm hoping to sell more.
• I know how to paint, draw, and create other artistic works. I am working to become better every day.

Why these are weak ?

These are bad examples for a number of reasons: Firstly, they give no real, substantial information about the artist. Their techniques, experiences, specialties, or styles aren't mentioned. They are vague and do not shed light on the artist's expertise or distinctive characteristics which make them stand out from competitors. Secondly, professional confidence is absent, phrases like 'I am not a professional artist' or 'I believe' show lack of confidence and self-assuredness which are unattractive for potential employers or customers. Lastly, there is no mention of any past experiences, achievements or influences which are important for insights into their works or credibility. An effective professional summary should include all these aspects, structured coherently.

Showcase your Work Experience

At the heart of any substantial resume sits the Work Experience section. For the vast majority of potential employers, this is the part they pay most attention to. It details the skills you've acquired, the roles you've performed, and the impact you've had in your professional journey. This section tells your story, connects the dots, and reveals much more about you, than just a list of jobs you had. As an Artist, creating an engaging Work Experience section can be uniquely challenging. Let's delve into how to convey your story without losing its vibrancy and authenticity.

Understanding the Significance

The Work Experience section is not merely a catalogue of roles you held; it's a showcase of your professional growth and accomplishments. It paints a picture of your adaptability, ambition, and commitment. Particularly as an Artist, it's a chance to let the various projects and roles you've had shine, demonstrating your creative process, innovation and the range of your skills.

Key Elements to Include

The job title, company name, and dates of employment are essential. However, rather than mere job descriptions, shift your focus to illustrating your accomplishments, impacts, or the skills gained. For art-related roles, these can be professional works, exhibitions, or commissions. Highlight your creativity and individual style while aligning it with the requirements of the role you're aiming to secure.

Quantify your achievements and impact using concrete numbers, metrics, and percentages to demonstrate the value you brought to your previous roles.

Honing The Structure

Start with the most recent role and work backwards chronologically. For each role, provide a brief overview and delve into specific achievements. These could be successful projects, recognition, positive feedback, or skills mastered. Use dynamic but simple language, lay it out clearly and succinctly.

Freelance and Collaborative work

As an Artist, you may have freelanced assignments, involving unique creative collaboration efforts. These deserve a special mention. Highlight your ability to work and create independently, exhibit your visionary thinking and ability to execute your artistic projects.

Strikes a Balance

While you want to articulate your achievements, avoid an exaggerated tone or superfluous language. Stick to the point, maintain a simple, reader-friendly language. The aim is to ensure whoever reads your resume picks up a truthful, comprehensive understanding of your artistic career, capably making you a fitting choice.

As an Artist, think of your work experience section as a composition—a piece you are creating that, in harmony with the other sections, tells a story of growth, success, challenge, and learning. Like any masterpiece, it takes time, reflection, and a great deal of 'editing' to get it just right. And remember, each stroke of the brush has to serve the grand picture you are painting.

Strong Experiences

• Designed and executed original, hand-illustrated logos for "Art Fusion Festival" contributing to an increase in festival brand recognition.
• Collaborated with an art team of 5 to create thematic concepts for large-scale installations for nationwide art exhibitions.
• Led workshops on abstract painting techniques that increased community engagement by 30%.
• Curated and managed art shows, including contract negotiations, artist liaison, and venue coordination.
• Developed digital and print marketing materials, including event invitations and exhibition catalogs.
• Awarded 'Artist of the Year' by the Regional Art Council in 2020.

These examples are good as they are specific and demonstrate achievements and responsibilities in the Artist field. They highlight important art-related skills: design ability, teamwork, workshop leading, curation, contract negotiation, marketing materials creation, and recognition in the field. Employers look for concrete examples showing what an applicant has actually achieved rather than just listing general responsibilities.

Weak Experiences

• Worked on various art projects.
• Responsible for artistic tasks.
• In charge of canvases and paints.
• Participant in brainstorming sessions.
• Worked on team for some time.

The above mentioned points are considered as bad examples because they are vague, generic and do not convey the specifics of the tasks the artist has performed during their work experience. Art is a highly creative and diverse field, and those reviewing resumes need to understand the specific skill sets and experiences of the candidate. Points such as 'Worked on various art projects', 'Responsible for artistic tasks' do not give any insight into what kind of projects were handled and what artistic tasks were performed. The recruiters would be interested to know the specifics, for example what kind of art style is the individual proficient in or what kind and extent of an art project did they handle. Vague bullet points can put off a recruiter as it shows lack of attention to detail from the candidate's side.

Skills, Keywords & ATS Tips

As an artist, both your hard and soft skills play crucial roles in presenting your capabilities to potential employers. These skills help to paint a complete picture of you as a creative professional.

Hard Skills in an Artist Resume

Hard skills refer to the technical abilities or knowledge you need to perform your job. For an artist, these can include skills like using software for graphic design, your knowledge of artistic techniques, and your ability to create or understand certain forms of art. Demonstrating these skills on your resume specifically shows that you have the technical know-how that the job requires.

Soft Skills in an Artist Resume

On the other hand, there are soft skills. These relate more to your personal traits and work ethic. As an artist, relevant soft skills might be creativity, patience, observation, time management, or the ability to work under pressure. Despite not being specifically job-related, these skills supplement your hard skills and present you as a balanced and adaptable professional.

Keywords, ATS and Matching Skills

Now let's discuss the relationship between keywords, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and matching skills. An ATS is a software tool that helps employers handle job applications. It can screen resumes, eliminating those that don't fit the job's requirements, based on certain 'keywords'. These keywords typically include skills, qualifications or experiences that a company is looking for in a potential employee.

So, when you're writing your resume, it's really important to include these keywords. This will help your resume pass through an ATS and catch a potential employer's attention. That's why, when you're examining a job description, you need to pay special attention to keywords that match your skills. These keywords should be integrated reasonably and naturally into your resume in order to maximize your chances of moving on to the next step of the hiring process.

Remember, your resume represents you. So, make sure it showcases both your hard and soft skills as an artist. Plus, don't forget to include those job-related keywords and match them with your skills. With a well-composed resume in hand, your journey to your dream job will be smoother.

Top Hard & Soft Skills for Full Stack Developers

Hard skills.

• Illustration
• Graphic Design
• Digital Art
• Printmaking
• Color Theory
• Composition
• Visual Communication
• Photography
• Adobe Creative Suite
• Storyboarding

Soft Skills

• Imagination
• Attention to Detail
• Adaptability
• Problem Solving
• Communication
• Collaboration
• Time Management
• Critical Thinking
• Emotional Intelligence
• Open-mindedness
• Flexibility
• Stress Management
• Self-Motivation
• Artistic Sensitivity

Top Action Verbs

Use action verbs to highlight achievements and responsibilities on your resume.

• Illustrated
• Conceptualized
• Collaborated
• Communicated
• Problem-solved
• Photographed
• Storyboarded
• Experimented
• Interpreted
• Implemented
• Transformed

Education & Certifications

Including your educational background and any certifications on your resume is a crucial step, especially as an artist, to justify your skill set and proficiency. Start with a dedicated 'Education' section, listing your qualifications starting from the most recent one. Include the name of the institution, the degree or certificate received, and the years attended. For certificates tied to specific skills, it's effective to list these in a 'Skills' or 'Certifications' section. This way, your artistic talents and formal training are clearly showcased to potential employers.

Some of the most important certifications for Artists

Certification for proficiency in Adobe software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.

Certification for proficiency in Autodesk software such as Maya, 3ds Max, and AutoCAD.

Certification for proficiency in Cinema 4D software for 3D modeling and animation.

Certification for proficiency in Toon Boom Harmony for 2D animation.

Resume FAQs for Artists

What is the ideal format for an artist resume.

The ideal format for an artist resume is a combination of a chronological and functional format. This allows you to highlight your artistic skills and achievements, while also providing a clear timeline of your professional experience.

How long should an artist resume be?

An artist resume should typically be one page in length, unless you have extensive experience or a significant number of exhibitions and awards to include. In that case, it can be two pages, but no longer.

What type of information should be included in an artist resume?

An artist resume should include your contact information, a professional summary or objective statement, a list of your artistic skills and techniques, your exhibition history, awards and honors, any relevant work experience, and your education.

How can I make my artist resume stand out?

To make your artist resume stand out, focus on highlighting your unique artistic style and vision, as well as any notable achievements or exhibitions. Use descriptive language to convey the essence of your work, and consider including a link to your online portfolio or website.

Should I include my artistic philosophy or statement in my resume?

While it's not necessary to include your entire artistic philosophy or statement in your resume, you can include a brief summary or highlight key elements that reflect your artistic approach and vision. This can help provide context for your work and make your resume more compelling.

As an Artist, you breathe life into canvases, sculpting emotions into tangible form. Your role? Unleash creativity, master techniques, and captivate audiences with your visionary artworks. For resumes, curate a striking portfolio showcasing your unique style. Highlight artistic education and quantify triumphs like exhibitions or pieces sold. Above all, tailor each resume to the opportunity, accentuating skills that align with the role's vision.

Multidisciplinary artist with a passion for creating thought-provoking and emotionally resonant works across various mediums. Skilled in traditional and digital art techniques, with a keen eye for composition, color, and storytelling. Adept at collaborating with diverse teams to bring artistic visions to life, while consistently meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations.

• Spearheaded the development of a new visual style for the studio, resulting in a 30% increase in client acquisition.
• Managed a team of 5 artists, providing mentorship and guidance to ensure the delivery of high-quality artwork.
• Collaborated with clients to create bespoke artwork for advertising campaigns, exhibitions, and publications.
• Implemented a streamlined workflow process, reducing project turnaround time by 20%.
• Contributed to the studio's social media strategy, increasing follower engagement by 40%.
• Created illustrations for a diverse range of clients, including book publishers, magazines, and advertising agencies.
• Developed a unique illustration style that became highly sought after, resulting in a 50% increase in commissions.
• Collaborated with writers and art directors to create visually compelling narratives.
• Consistently delivered high-quality work within tight deadlines, maintaining a 95% client satisfaction rate.
• Expanded professional network through active participation in industry events and online communities.
• Assisted in the curation and installation of monthly exhibitions, ensuring a seamless visitor experience.
• Managed gallery inventory and sales, contributing to a 15% increase in revenue.
• Conducted research on featured artists and artworks, creating engaging content for gallery publications and tours.
• Provided exceptional customer service, building strong relationships with collectors and artists.
• Supported the gallery director in administrative tasks, including budget management and event planning.
• Oil painting
• Acrylic painting
• Digital illustration
• Graphic design
• Art direction
• Concept development
• Color theory
• Visual storytelling
• Project management

A freelance artist crafts custom artwork for a variety of clients and projects, breathing life into creative visions. When penning your resume, curate a captivating portfolio exhibiting diverse styles and mediums. Accentuate your artistic skills, technical prowess with relevant software, and any awards or exhibitions that validate your talents. Quantify relevant experience and education to substantiate your qualifications. Ensure a visually-appealing, well-formatted resume that reflects your eye for design. Above all, let your passion for art shine through to leave a lasting impression.

Evelyn Jennings is a creative and versatile freelance artist with over 8 years of experience in various art mediums, including digital illustration, graphic design, and traditional painting. Her unique style and ability to adapt to client needs have earned her a reputation as a reliable and talented artist in the industry.

• Created high-quality digital illustrations for clients in various industries, including publishing, advertising, and gaming
• Collaborated with art directors and clients to develop concepts and deliver artwork that met their specific requirements
• Managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction
• Continuously expanded skill set and stayed up-to-date with the latest industry trends and techniques
• Built a strong portfolio and client base through networking and effective marketing strategies
• Designed logos, brochures, and other marketing materials for a diverse range of clients
• Collaborated with the creative team to develop and execute design concepts that aligned with client objectives
• Prepared and delivered design presentations to clients, incorporating their feedback and revisions
• Assisted with the development of brand guidelines and ensured consistency across all design projects
• Contributed to the agency's success by delivering high-quality work and fostering positive client relationships
• Taught various art classes, including drawing, painting, and digital art, to students of all ages and skill levels
• Developed engaging lesson plans and provided individualized guidance to help students improve their techniques and express their creativity
• Organized and promoted art exhibitions to showcase student work and raise the studio's profile in the local community
• Managed inventory and supplies, ensuring the studio was well-stocked and maintained
• Received consistently positive feedback from students and parents for creating a supportive and inspiring learning environment
• Traditional painting
• Clip Studio Paint
• Character design
• Print production
• Art instruction

A fine artist creates original artwork using various mediums like painting, sculpture or photography. Their resume should highlight formal art education, exhibitions or awards showcasing their work, mediums and artistic styles. Relevant experiences like teaching art classes or gallery internships are assets. Discuss your artistic background and vision concisely with a visually-appealing layout.

Imaginative and dynamic fine artist with a passion for exploring the boundaries of creative expression. Skilled in a wide range of media and techniques, from traditional painting and drawing to contemporary digital art and installations. Recognized for thought-provoking and emotionally resonant works that challenge perceptions and inspire dialogue. Committed to pushing the frontiers of art and contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape.

• Developed and executed a series of large-scale, site-specific installations exploring themes of identity and belonging
• Collaborated with a diverse team of artists, curators, and community members to create inclusive and engaging programming
• Conducted workshops and artist talks to promote public engagement with contemporary art practices
• Received critical acclaim for a solo exhibition showcasing a powerful new body of work
• Secured grant funding to support ongoing research and experimentation with innovative materials and techniques
• Designed and taught a range of studio art courses for adults and youth, focusing on painting, drawing, and mixed media
• Developed curriculum and lesson plans to foster technical skill development and creative problem-solving
• Mentored emerging artists through one-on-one critiques and portfolio reviews
• Curated student exhibitions and coordinated public programs to showcase their work
• Collaborated with museum educators to integrate studio art practices into interpretive programming
• Provided technical and administrative support to internationally renowned artists in a fast-paced gallery setting
• Prepared materials, maintained equipment, and managed inventory for multiple studio spaces
• Assisted with the production and installation of complex artworks for exhibitions and art fairs
• Coordinated shipping and logistics for artworks traveling to museums and collectors worldwide
• Gained in-depth knowledge of contemporary art market practices and built relationships with key industry professionals
• Installation art
• Digital art
• Art history
• Studio management
• Art handling
• Exhibition design
• Public speaking
• Grant writing

A storyboard artist breathes life into scripts by skillfully visualizing scenes through illustrations that guide the creative vision. To craft an impressive resume, highlight your artistic talents, relevant education/training, and experience working on creative projects. Emphasize your ability to visually communicate narratives, collaborate with teams, and proficiency in industry software. Make your resume stand out by including links to an online portfolio showcasing your best storyboard samples. Quantify achievements like the number of projects you've contributed to or accolades received. Demonstrate your unique perspective and passion for storytelling through visuals.

Innovative and imaginative Storyboard Artist with a proven track record of bringing scripts to life through compelling visuals. Known for collaborating closely with directors, producers, and writers to develop storyboards that effectively convey the desired mood, tone, and pacing of each scene. Adept at working under tight deadlines while maintaining a keen eye for detail and consistency.

• Led the storyboarding team for a highly anticipated animated feature film, resulting in a visually stunning and emotionally engaging final product.
• Collaborated with the director and writers to develop and refine the film's narrative, ensuring that each scene effectively conveyed the desired emotions and plot points.
• Mentored junior storyboard artists, providing guidance and feedback to help them improve their skills and contribute to the overall success of the project.
• Introduced innovative storyboarding techniques that streamlined the production process and reduced costs by 15%.
• Received a studio award for outstanding contributions to the film's success.
• Created storyboards for multiple episodes of popular animated series, consistently meeting tight deadlines while maintaining high quality standards.
• Worked closely with directors and writers to interpret scripts and develop visually engaging scenes that effectively conveyed the desired tone and pacing.
• Contributed ideas and suggestions during story meetings, helping to shape the direction of episodes and improve overall storytelling.
• Developed a reputation for creating storyboards that required minimal revisions, saving time and resources during the production process.
• Participated in cross-functional teams to ensure smooth collaboration between departments and timely completion of projects.
• Provided storyboarding services for a diverse range of clients, including independent filmmakers, advertising agencies, and educational institutions.
• Demonstrated exceptional adaptability and communication skills, successfully interpreting client briefs and delivering storyboards that exceeded expectations.
• Developed a strong professional network through consistent delivery of high-quality work and positive client referrals.
• Created storyboards for a crowdfunded animated short film that went on to receive critical acclaim at international film festivals.
• Continuously updated skills and knowledge of industry trends to provide clients with cutting-edge storyboarding solutions.
• Visual Storytelling
• Sketching and Drawing
• Storyboarding Software (Toon Boom Storyboard Pro, Adobe Photoshop)
• Composition and Framing
• Cinematography
• Script Analysis and Interpretation
• Collaborative Problem Solving
• Adaptability and Flexibility
• Time Management and Deadlines
• Creativity and Imagination
• Strong Communication Skills
• Ability to Give and Receive Constructive Feedback
• Knowledge of Animation Principles
• Passion for Storytelling and Visual Arts

Visual artists breathe life into concepts through their imaginative use of mediums like paint, clay, and digital tools. Their role involves conceptualizing captivating ideas and skillfully transforming them into evocative visual masterpieces that inspire and provoke thought. When crafting a resume, showcase your artistic prowess by highlighting notable exhibitions, awards, and a link to your online portfolio. Emphasize your artistic vision, technical abilities, and commitment to continuous creativity and growth within the allocated word count.

Highly creative and versatile Visual Artist with a passion for crafting captivating and thought-provoking artworks across various mediums. Skilled in traditional and digital art techniques, consistently delivering innovative and impactful visual solutions. Adept at collaborating with clients and team members to bring artistic visions to life. Committed to pushing creative boundaries and making a lasting impression on audiences.

• Lead the conceptualization and execution of visual elements for high-profile client projects, resulting in a 95% client satisfaction rate.
• Developed and implemented innovative art styles and techniques, enhancing the studio's creative output and attracting a 30% increase in new clients.
• Mentored and guided a team of 5 junior artists, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Created a series of large-scale murals for public spaces, garnering widespread public acclaim and media coverage.
• Designed and illustrated a best-selling graphic novel, achieving sales of over 100,000 copies within the first month of release.
• Developed visually stunning concept art and illustrations for various entertainment industry projects, including feature films, TV shows, and video games.
• Collaborated closely with art directors and production teams to ensure visual consistency and alignment with project goals.
• Created a series of digital paintings that were featured in a prominent international art exhibition, receiving critical acclaim.
• Designed and produced a range of merchandise items featuring original artwork, generating over $50,000 in revenue.
• Conducted workshops and tutorials on digital painting techniques, empowering aspiring artists to refine their skills.
• Provided high-quality visual art services to a diverse range of clients, including book publishers, advertising agencies, and individual collectors.
• Developed a strong portfolio showcasing various art styles and techniques, attracting a steady stream of freelance projects.
• Created a series of commissioned portraits that consistently exceeded client expectations and resulted in a 90% referral rate.
• Designed and illustrated a collection of book covers for a bestselling author, contributing to increased sales and visibility.
• Maintained a strong online presence through social media and a professional website, building a dedicated following of over 50,000 fans and potential clients.
• Traditional drawing and painting
• Concept art development
• Color theory and composition
• Environment design
• 3D modeling and texturing
• Motion graphics
• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
• Collaboration and communication

A concept artist is a visionary creative responsible for translating abstract ideas into vivid visual designs for films, video games, and other multimedia projects. Their role involves conceptualizing characters, environments, and storyboards that bring narrative concepts to life. When crafting a resume for this role, it's crucial to showcase an exceptional portfolio that demonstrates your artistic prowess, imagination, and mastery of digital art tools. Highlight your formal training, technical skills, and any experience working within creative teams to visualize and refine concepts through multiple iterations.

Visionary Concept Artist with a passion for bringing imaginative worlds to life. Skilled in leveraging digital art tools to create captivating characters, environments, and props that immerse audiences in compelling narratives. Excels at collaborating with cross-functional teams to align artistic vision with project goals and deliver high-quality visual assets on tight deadlines.

• Led the concept art team for a new AAA game title, delivering over 200 high-quality character, environment, and prop designs that received praise from the creative director and executive team.
• Collaborated closely with the game design and narrative teams to ensure concept art aligned with gameplay mechanics and storytelling, resulting in a cohesive and immersive player experience.
• Mentored and provided art direction to a team of 5 junior concept artists, fostering their skills development and ensuring consistent quality across all visual assets.
• Created detailed style guides and asset libraries that improved workflow efficiency and enabled the 3D modeling team to accurately translate 2D concepts into game-ready assets.
• Participated in regular art reviews and critiques, providing constructive feedback to team members and identifying areas for improvement and iteration.
• Developed concept art for characters, environments, vehicles, and weapons for the critically acclaimed game Assassin's Creed Odyssey.
• Collaborated with the art director to establish the visual style and aesthetic of the game, ensuring consistency across all concept art assets.
• Created detailed turnarounds, orthographic views, and color palettes for characters and props, providing clear references for 3D modelers and texture artists.
• Participated in brainstorming sessions with the creative team to generate ideas for new game features, locations, and storylines.
• Assisted in the creation of marketing and promotional materials, including key art, character renders, and environmental shots.
• Created concept art for characters, creatures, and props for the game Dragon Age: Inquisition, contributing to the game's award-winning visual design.
• Collaborated with senior concept artists to develop and refine art assets, ensuring consistency with the established art style and game lore.
• Assisted in the creation of storyboards and keyframes for cutscenes and cinematics, working closely with the animation team.
• Participated in regular art critiques and reviews, receiving feedback from senior artists and the art director to improve skills and techniques.
• Maintained organized project files and asset libraries, ensuring easy access and version control for the art team.
• Character Design
• Environment Design
• Prop Design
• Digital Painting
• 3D Modeling (Basic)
• Illustrator
• PaintTool SAI
• Zbrush (Basic)

Digital Artists leverage creative vision and technical skills to produce compelling visual designs and illustrations using digital tools. This role involves conceptualizing artistic ideas, manipulating images and graphics, and designing digital art assets for various media. When crafting a resume, clearly format relevant experience such as graphic design or animation projects. Highlight technical expertise with software like Adobe Creative Cloud. Maintain an online portfolio showcasing your best work. Most importantly, tailor your resume's content to the specific Digital Artist role you're pursuing.

Innovative Digital Artist with a passion for creating captivating visual experiences. Adept at leveraging cutting-edge technologies to develop immersive digital environments and characters. Proven track record of delivering high-quality projects for top-tier entertainment and gaming companies. Collaborative team player with strong communication skills and a keen eye for detail.

• Led the digital art team in creating stunning visual assets for the popular game League of Legends, resulting in a 20% increase in player engagement.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and implement innovative art styles and techniques, enhancing the overall visual quality of the game.
• Mentored junior artists, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the team.
• Developed a streamlined workflow for asset creation, reducing production time by 25% while maintaining high quality standards.
• Created highly detailed and expressive character designs, environments, and visual effects that received widespread acclaim from players and industry professionals.
• Contributed to the creation of photorealistic digital environments and characters for major Hollywood blockbusters, including Star Wars and Marvel films.
• Developed and implemented advanced texturing and lighting techniques to enhance the realism and visual impact of digital assets.
• Collaborated with VFX supervisors and art directors to ensure that digital assets met the creative vision and technical requirements of each project.
• Optimized digital assets for performance and efficiency, ensuring smooth integration into complex VFX pipelines.
• Participated in research and development initiatives to explore new technologies and techniques for digital art creation.
• Created high-quality 3D models, textures, and animations for AAA video game titles, including Assassin's Creed and Watch Dogs.
• Collaborated with game designers and programmers to ensure that 3D assets were optimized for performance and seamlessly integrated into game engines.
• Developed and maintained 3D art pipelines and workflows, streamlining production processes and improving efficiency.
• Participated in art direction meetings and provided creative input to shape the visual style and direction of game projects.
• Mentored and trained junior 3D artists, helping to develop their skills and foster a positive team environment.
• 3D Modeling
• Visual Effects
• Substance Painter
• Unreal Engine
• Real-time Rendering

A professional artist conceptualizes and creates original artworks across mediums like painting, drawing, sculpture, and digital art. They may work freelance or for clients. For the resume, highlight your artistic style through an online portfolio showcasing your best works. Detail formal art education, exhibitions/awards, proficiency with various mediums, and any relevant experience.

Highly creative and versatile professional artist with a passion for crafting visually stunning and thought-provoking works across various media. Skilled in traditional and digital art techniques, with a keen eye for composition, color, and detail. Adept at collaborating with clients and team members to bring artistic visions to life, consistently delivering projects on time and exceeding expectations. Dedicated to continuous learning and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

• Spearheaded the development of a new visual style for the studio's flagship project, resulting in a 30% increase in client satisfaction and a 20% boost in project efficiency.
• Mentored and guided a team of 5 junior artists, fostering a collaborative and creative work environment that improved overall team performance by 25%.
• Created a series of large-scale murals for high-profile clients, including Fortune 500 companies and public institutions, consistently receiving praise for the artworks' impact and visual appeal.
• Developed and implemented innovative digital art techniques that streamlined the studio's workflow, reducing project timelines by 15% on average.
• Represented the studio at industry events and exhibitions, establishing valuable connections and securing new business opportunities that contributed to a 20% growth in annual revenue.
• Collaborated with a diverse range of clients, including book publishers, magazines, and advertising agencies, to create compelling illustrations that effectively communicated their desired messages.
• Developed a strong personal brand and online presence, attracting a steady stream of clients and maintaining a 95% client retention rate.
• Created a series of illustrations for a best-selling children's book, contributing to its success and earning recognition from industry professionals.
• Designed and illustrated a series of collectible art prints that sold out within 48 hours of release, demonstrating a strong understanding of market demand and trends.
• Continuously expanded skill set and adapted to new technologies, ensuring the ability to deliver high-quality work across various media and styles.
• Designed visually striking and user-friendly interfaces for web and mobile applications, contributing to a 25% increase in user engagement and client satisfaction.
• Created a cohesive and impactful visual identity for a national non-profit organization, helping to raise brand awareness and support for their cause.
• Collaborated closely with the marketing team to develop compelling visual content for social media campaigns, resulting in a 40% increase in followers and a 60% boost in engagement rates.
• Streamlined the design process by creating and maintaining a library of reusable design assets, reducing project turnaround times by 20% on average.
• Participated in regular design critiques and workshops, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the design team.
• Concept art
• Visual development
• Matte painting
• Collaborative problem-solving

Crafting Artistic Statements: 10 Powerful Examples & Guide

If you’ve been dreading writing your artist statement, you’re not alone. Although you love working on your artwork , coming up with an artist statement isn’t always easy.

But don’t fear! I’ll share some examples of famous artist statements here. Plus, I’ll walk you through how to write your own artist statement, what to include, and what to skip. 

So, let’s get started!

10 Excellent Artist Statement Examples

Here are ten great artist statement examples you can use for inspiration! Looking at good artist statements can help you decide what to include in your own. But don’t feel like you should copy a sample artist statement – remember to make it unique and personal! 

1. Wassily Kandinsky

“I let myself go. I thought little of the houses and trees, but applied color stripes and spots to the canvas… Within me sounded the memory of the early evening in Moscow – before my eyes were the strong, color-saturated scale of the Munich light and atmosphere, which thundered deeply in the shadows.”

2. Gustav Klimt

“I have never painted a self-portrait. I am less interested in myself as a subject for a painting than I am in other people, above all women… There is nothing special about me. I am a painter who paints day after day from morning to night… Whoever wants to know something about me… ought to look carefully at my pictures.”

3. Mark Rothko

“I’m not interested in relationships of color or form or anything else. I’m interested only in expressing basic human emotions – tragedy, ecstasy, doom, and so on – and the fact that lots of people break down and cry when confronted with my pictures shows that I communicate those basic human emotions… The people who weep before my pictures are having the same religion I had when I painted them.”

4. Edvard Munch

“I was walking along a path with two friends – the sun was setting – suddenly the sky turned blood red – I paused, feeling exhausted, and leaned on the fence – there were blood and tongues of fire above the blue-black fjord and the city – my friends walked on, and I stood there trembling with anxiety – and I sensed an infinite scream passing through nature.”

5. Pablo Picasso

“I have never made trials or experiments. Whenever I had something to say, I have said it in the manner in which it needed to be said… I can hardly understand the importance given to the word “research” in connection with the modern painting. In my opinion to search means nothing in painting. To find is the thing.”

6. Jackson Pollock

“I want to express my feelings rather than illustrate them. It doesn’t matter how the paint is put on, as long as something is said. On the floor, I am more at ease. I feel nearer, more part of the painting, since this way I can walk around it, work from the four sides and literally be in the painting. When I’m painting, I’m not aware of what I’m doing. It’s only after a get-acquainted period that I see what I’ve been about. I’ve no fears about making changes for the painting has a life of its own.”

7. Nancy McIntyre

“What do I want to say with my art? Celebrate the human, the marks people make on the world. Treasure the local, the small-scale, the eccentric, the ordinary: whatever is made out of caring. Respect what people have built for themselves. Find the beauty in some battered old porch or cluttered, human-scale storefront, while it still stands.”

8. Duane Keiser

“My subject matter tends to be those fragmentary passages that reside within the mundane – the in-between spaces of our lives that we see but often do not notice. For me, these paintings are about the pleasure of seeing; of being cognizant of the world around me, and pushing to find an alchemy between the paint, my subject, and the moment. I view each piece as being part of a single, ongoing work.”

9. Charlene Fuhrman-Schulz

“My subject matter is nature, whether it is a traditional landscape or a bird and flower painting. I use traditional materials, ink, and brush on rice paper, to capture movement and life — making the brush dance and the ink sing. Everything is captured in the spontaneous dance and movement of the brush as it meets the rice paper. There is no going back and correcting when painting with ink and rice paper.”

10. Georgia O’Keeffe 

“I have but one desire as a painter – that is to paint what I see, as I see it, in my own way, without regard for the desires or taste of the professional dealer or the professional collector. I attribute what little success I have to this fact. I wouldn’t turn out stuff for order, and I couldn’t. It would stifle any creative ability I possess.”

What is an Artist Statement?

Every artist needs to write an artist statement at some point. But, what is it exactly?

An artist statement gives insight into the artist’s process and creative decisions. It can also explain the themes, ideas, and vision of the artist. You can think of it as an initial introduction to yourself and your work to give a great first impression!

Artist statements officially date back to the 1990s . But while they haven’t been around a long time, artists have always tried to define and explain their work. 

These statements can vary in length from a few sentences to a page or more. Each statement will differ, but you want yours to be memorable and easy to understand.

Most importantly, it should help people to understand your work.

Artist statements are used for many reasons. You may use yours when applying for grants, submitting a portfolio, or for PR and press mentions.  It can also appear on your website. 

So, it’s an essential document you’ll need to create. It’s key to growing your following and building a successful career as an artist. 

Writing an artist statement can also help you to get clear on your overall vision and values. You might need to spend some time reflecting on what your art means to you.

And yes, it does mean you’ll have to put down the paintbrush briefly. But with these tips, you’ll know exactly how to write your artist statement. 

Once it’s written, you can use the same statement again and again. If your artwork evolves over time, you may want to update it slightly. But you’ll have already done the hard work researching, planning, and writing it.

How to Write an Artist Statement

Writing an artist statement sounds daunting, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. 

Here are my simple steps for crafting an engaging and effective artist statement! These tips will take you from a bland statement to an amazing artist’s mission statement.

Use simple language

Don’t overcomplicate your statement or use very academic language. That can put people off reading it. Your statement must be powerful and accessible to everyone.

Use active voice and 1st person perspective

I always recommend using the active voice as it comes across as more confident and powerful. Avoid wishy-washy phrases like:

• I want to … in my work

Instead, switch it to active voice. Instantly, you’ll have a more interesting and captivating statement. 

Using 1st person perspective also ensures that your statement is clear and direct. 

Keep it short and sweet

You want to grab the reader’s attention and hold their interest. Avoid an artist statement that is several paragraphs (or pages!) long. A short artist statement is more powerful. So, it should be concise and to the point, without any filler. 

Condense what you want to say down into as little as possible without losing the meaning. Your artist statement should be short enough to quote! 

Ask yourself questions

Your statement allows you to provide a greater understanding of your creative choices. It can give a window into your thought process, so people can take more from your art.

But you need to ensure you include this information in your statement. Otherwise, you’re missing an opportunity. 

One effective method is to think about what people might want to know from you. What questions do you get asked in interviews?

Here are a few questions you could ask yourself:

• What do you want to achieve with your art?
• How do you create your artwork?
• What type of artist am I?
• How does the process, medium, or technique affect the work?
• What does the reader need to know to understand your artwork?
• What emotions do you want to invoke in the reader?
• Who has influenced you in your artistic career, and particularly in this work?
• Who or what are you addressing in this artwork?
• What else do you want your audience to know?
• How does this work relate to your other works?
• What is your art philosophy?
• How does your artwork fit into the history of art?

Don’t worry – you don’t have to answer all these questions in your statement. You can decide which ones make sense. Remember that short and sweet is better than long and dry – you want to get people interested in you!

Once you’ve identified what people want to know about you and your art, you can consider your responses. 

Do your research

A great way to get inspiration for your artist statement is by looking at other examples. You can read up on how the old masters or contemporary artists describe their work. 

Doing some research will help you understand how to structure your statement. It can also give you food for thought to delve deeper into the meanings of your artwork, too! 

If you’re still struggling, there are artist statement templates you can use to get you started. A template will help you build your statement’s structure so that you can concentrate on the details. 

Step away and come back later to edit

It’s easy to get caught up in the details and overthink something as important as an artist’s statement. This document is meaningful and may provoke lots of thoughts or emotions. 

If you find yourself writing and editing, again and again, take some time to step away. Any piece of writing benefits from a fresh eye. When you work on something for a long time, it’s easy to miss any minor details or mistakes.

I always recommend coming back another day to read through and make any final changes. 

The Wrap Up

Writing your artist statement doesn’t have to be a painstaking process. Now, you’ve had a look at some great artist statements. With these simple tips, you’re all set to craft your own statement now! 

Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below. Go ahead and share your artist statement once you’ve written it, too! 

Follow me on Pinterest for more tips, guides, and tutorials for creative professionals! 

Outmane is the founder of Proactive Creative. He is an artist/designer.

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How to write an artist statement: dos, don’ts, and what you can achieve

If you’re reading this article about how to write an artist statement, there is probably an essential deadline on your horizon that requires you to write this description of what you do and how you do it as an artist. Usually, statements are a requirement along with a resume and portfolio for grants, exhibitions, masters, and degrees.

But why is writing an artist statement a synonym for stress, hours spent looking at a blank page, and clocks ticking faster than usual? Well, most artists spend so much time immersed in their craft that putting it in words can be daunting.

No one knows what you do, how, and why you do it better than you. Writing an artist statement is just about putting your ideas in order and opening yourself up to share your work with others, as you will learn with this guide.

To write an artist statement describe what you do, how, and why.

What is an artist statement?

Before actually starting to write it, you need to have a clear idea of what an artist’s statement is. This short text, divided into two to three paragraphs, is a description of your artwork, what its creation involves, and the motivation and inspiration behind it. A proper artist statement should address the questions that arise when the observer engages with your work and adds context to it.

As art is subjective, an artist’s statement works like the prism from which the public should look at a certain piece, a project, or even your full body of work . An artist statement should be adaptable to certain requirements like where and when you are presenting it. It’s not the same to write a statement needed for a gallery , a solo exhibition, or writing a statement for an upcoming interview in an art magazine.

  An artist statement can be a complement to a portafolio, resume, and even “About” page. 

What an artist statement isn’t

Sometimes when you don’t know where to start, it helps to know where you shouldn’t. An artist statement is not a resume . If your first draft starts looking like a LinkedIn profile: erase and restart. This is not a list of your academic achievements or artistic accomplishments.

An artist statement is not a retelling of your life story . There are several differences between an artist statement and an artist biography. The latter one, for example, will usually be written in the third person and have details such as your date and city of birth , your first connection to the art world, education, training, and experience, along with your influences or particular point of view about art, the type of pieces you create and even the different stages your body of work has gone through. In summary, an artist statement is NOT a bio that tells the essentials of an artist’s life.

Just to make it clear, an artist statement is not :

– A manifesto

-A short story

– A thesaurus 

-A collection of pompous adjectives about you or your artwork

-A group of generic phrases about art

– An ode to yourself

An artist’s statement should be clear and concise and yet full of personality.

How long should an artist’s statement be?

An artist’s statement should tell the viewer what they need to know about you and your artwork in a simple and concise way. Generally, an artist’s statement  shouldn’t be  150 to 200 words . To give you an idea: this amounts to around four tweets.

An artist statement should be an adaptable text that can appeal to different readers.

Common types of artist statements

Depending on its recipient and the main objective, there are a few types of artist statements to name:

Short statement

This is a brief description of a certain piece and lets the reader know its main subject, characteristics, and media.

Short project statement

This artist’s statement focuses solely on a certain project, like an exhibition, and describes its particular subjects: themes, medium, and what sparked its creation. It might be closer (in concept and content) to a curatorial statement.

Full-Page Statement

This “longer” statement intends to give the reader a general overview of your body of work, what your recurring themes are, subjects you are interested in, techniques, and methods.

What do you do? The first thing that comes to mind can kickstart your writing process for an artist statement.

Facing the blank page: write like an artist

How exciting and yet intimidating a blank page is! Just as you do with a blank canvas, you need to start somewhere: draw a line , or in this case, write one . It doesn’t have to be the phrase that will redefine art in the 21st century, drop the weight of expectation s. Just write a line that says something about what you do.

There is no other person in the world with your identity and experiences . Two artists can be put inside the same box because they work with a similar theme or use the same medium, but the truth is each one of them is unique. Sometime s telling others what you do and what makes your art one-of-a-kind can be scary because it asks for a certain vulnerability and, at the same time, a recognition of your value and expertise. But there are some little exercises you can do to get you into writing:

• Fill in a page with everything, literally, everything you could say related to your work and why you do it. It’s freestyle! Say it however you feel like it and then start editing.
• Write a paragraph talking about your art as it was another person’s body of work.
• Record a voice note explaining your artwork like you would do to a friend and then write it down.
• Change the medium: are you used to writing on your computer? Go back to the trustworthy pen and paper, and vice versa.
• Make a list of the information that you want to mention and then play around with the structure of when and how to say it.
• Question yourself: what makes my work unique? What makes me stand out from others? Write it down.

One last piece of advice: don’t edit while you write. Let your hands go wild typing and once you have finished, start summing up and correcting.

At first sight, an artist’s statement should answer the three w’s: what, how, and why .

What an artist statement should say: what, how, and why

An artist’s statement should answer in just a few sentences the three big W’s about your work: what you do, how you do it, and why you do it . Follow these steps to answer each one of them:

It might seem obvious, but you have to explain exactly what it is that you do because the viewers should know what they are looking at. Is it a landscape painting? A sketch portrait drawing? Or a mixed-media piece? Explain it all: medium, subjects, materials, formats, and even what is being portrayed.

Sometimes the “how” is the most important part of this mix. To fully understand the significance or concept of a piece the observer needs to know how an artwork came to be . You went through a full journey to make that piece and that context can refocus how it’s going to be seen.

What was your purpose? There was something that motivated you to create a certain piece or project. Open a window to your world: what are you saying and why is it important to you to express that message and put it out in the world?

Your artist statement should reflect who you are: it should sound like you!

Once these three main points are clear you can play around with the structure. What comes first? What is going to be the killer closing line? Well, that’s your choice! The text should reflect your style and personality , even your humor and vulnerability, and how you approach your craft and passion.

And before you hit the “send” or “publish” button read your text and make sure it follows these essential tips to write an artist statement:

– Use an active voice.

-Don’t write it in the third person.

– The phrase “the artist” should not be present (pun intended).

-Refer to yourself in the first person instead.

-Avoid worldly sentences.

-Read the text and see how it sounds.

– Correct spelling and style , and pass the text through a grammar checker.

-Share your text with a colleague, a friend, or a mentor and ask them for their opinion.

-Proofread your text.

– Proofread your text one more time, just to be sure.

Your artist statement could “welcome” visitors to your 3D online show. Example: a virtual exhibition of Paolo Petrucci’s work.

Making the best out of it: when and how to use your artist statement

When it comes to your artist statement it is better to have one ready at all times : either the first draft for a particular work or a general one that gives an overview of your body of work. Why? That way you won’t be battling with deadlines for grants, scholarships, a teaching position, or a submission for an exhibition. You’ll have a “base” artist statement that you can adapt according to the occasion and particular requirements.

But is that all you can do with your artist statement? Not today! If you want to promote and sell your work as an independent artist , your artist statement is a great way to introduce your work to potential customers , retailers, media outlets, and even something to add to the description of a piece in an art marketplace to make it stand out.

If you have taken the lead and created a 3D digital gallery for a particular project, there is a creative way to enhance that experience for the viewer . Take for example ArtPlacer’s virtual exhibitions, your artist statement could work both as a description or as a welcome text for the viewer , or you could add it to a wall like you would do with an image or video and turn it into an actual visual statement. Sign up to ArtPlacer’s free trial and test it!

Now that you know how to create an artist statement and what to do with it, put your vision into words and give your audience a more informed and richer way to look at your artwork. 

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This guide was extremely helpful and detailed. Helping to get to the point of my art

It’s not easy to talk about your own work, but this guide made it feel more like a conversation

This guide really helped me demystify the artist statement process! I always struggled with making mine sound professional without losing my voice. Now I feel more confident about my statement!

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Very helpful, thanks!! Kirk

I appreciate the article, it helped. Dass

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