<< Back to Snapshots

“If you aim for a market you’ll miss the mark.” That statement rings so true. It’s no good looking over the shoulder at what strangers prefer before creating. Authentic inspiration is the spear that taps audience attention. Likewise, strong presentation tools are the magnets for audience attraction. Far too many masterpieces are tucked low on shelves beneath the light of day. Like the apex of an iceberg, our presentations show first. They introduce our work, foster credibility, and mirror how far we’ve traveled along the arc of our goals. New leads and connections must be supported by an effective “portrait” of who we are. Selling may be a secondary motivation, but is a vital part of every career. So never underestimate the power of presentation. Why not enter the new season prepared with an updated, incisive, authentic, and powerful one? Start now and stay ahead of the pack:

For a complete list of Gateways Coaching Services click here.

What are these essential artist presentation tools?

Artist Statement:
Shape your essential bond with viewers and sales

An artist statement communicates what motivates you as an artist. It’s the most personal part of your presentation; an opportunity to bring your viewers and potential buyers closer for a glimpse of the person behind the work. While keeping it informative, let your personality show. Share your ideas and concerns, and how they are revealed in your work. Explain to viewers what your work means to you, not what it’s supposed to mean to them: they will arrive at their own conclusions. It’s okay to mention influences, but mostly reserve for the resume prominent names associated with your career. There they will serve as testimonial and avoid the appearance of boasting. Give some details about your techniques and how they help you to achieve your vision. Then, you might add a segment about your approach: how it's unique, or even pushes the boundaries of your genre. Finally, keep your statement succinct. Most general artist statements are around one page or less. Brevity sustains attention, so when I write a client artist statemtent, I lean toward three or four concise paragraphs. In some situations, a statement about a particular artwork may be requested, in which case it acts as a marketing piece. Choose your structure as appropriate, and be sure to tailor your artist statement to its purpose.

See Gateways Writing Services:
For help on your Artist Statement, Bio, Resume, Proposals and more

Artist Bio:
Create a memorable snapshot of your career life

An artist biography contains similar information to the artist resume but is presented in paragraph form, is less formal, and is most often written in the third person. It serves to highlight the information presented on your resume in a more conversational way. The best bios offer a compact and colorful “snapshot” view of your career experience.

Artist Resume:
Detail your career with clarity and professionalism

Artist resumes detail the accomplishments, endeavors, and knowledge. They offer a full picture of your career. The categories featured on the resume will depend upon your artistic discipline. It’s important to update your resume on a regular basis, adding and deleting the listed activities, as appropriate. An artist resume can be one to four pages in length. Most artists have two versions prepared: one longer, and one shorter. It’s often best to use a professional paper stock, in white or ivory. The style of type varies, and can add to the resume’s professionalism.

See Gateways Writing Services:
For help on your Artist Statement, Bio, Resume, Proposals and more

Artist Proposal:
Stand out from the crowd with dynamic writing/shaping/editing

Artists also use their presentation materials to apply for specific projects, funding programs, residencies, or other competitive opportunities. These applications may ask you to submit a project description, details on your approach to the project, and a cover letter. These written materials should be tightly edited and tailored to the particular opportunity. Be passionate and sincere in the presentation of your work and goals. Always conclude by thanking the panel, juror, and/or organization for their time and consideration.

You will need to answer a range of questions including:
Why are you an ideal applicant?
How will you benefit the program or project?
What technical qualifications, abilities, or personal assets can you contribute?
How will you benefit from the opportunity?
How would the project advance your career as an artist?
How would you use the money awarded?

See Gateways Writing Services:
For help on Artist Statement, Bio, Resume, Proposal and more

Visual Artist Portfolio:
Keep the heart and soul of your work evolving

Your portfolio is the most valuable tool in your overall presentation. Your visuals are worth a thousand words, and an arresting portfolio can help close the gap, especially when written materials (as in those of younger applicants) are naturally less developed. There are many approaches to a portfolio, depending upon the discipline. One essential universal ingredient to a successful portfolio is a sense of continuity. The transitions between- and within- subject matter must cohere. Color, tone, shape, scale, all must be considered when choosing what images to include and how to position them. This process involves subjectivity as well as objectivity. Most artists benefit greatly from feedback from a trained eye, and reactions from untrained eyes can also be helpful. A portfolio is most successful when modified and tailored, with acumen, for its particular audience.

Many artists now supplement their physical portfolio with a digital version either on the Web or presented on CD-ROM or DVD. Stay current on new formats and choose the method(s) that feature your work most powerfully and support your marketing goals.

See Gateways Portfolio Development:
For help shaping your portfolio to the next level

<< Back to Snapshots

Do you need content? You may use these essays at your website, or in your newsletter. The only requirement is inclusion of the following sentence plus active links:

*Essay by Barbara Bowen of GatewaysCoaching.com - the definitive source for artist presentation and creative careers. Contact Barbara with your questions about artist statement, bio, proposals, portfolios or other marketing support. She would love to hear from you.*