Yeh I know. It's hard to sit and write deep, thoughtful thoughts about your art.
Once a year, I try to write engaging thoughts about the development of my work, my evolution as an artist, and just what I'm trying to do when I paint. Because that's what you're supposed to do. Make meaningful work that will impact everyone and their cat. But how do you begin to craft a statement that actually makes sense and isn't just a bunch of elaborate words strung together in a confusing way that doesn't really make sense but no one will question it because that's what they're supposed to be?
cue exhale 😮💨
You use this easy formula below:
I am a blank
I make blank
My artwork looks like blank
I make (line 2) because of blank
Lines three and four can often become a little more fluffy (or obscure) as you flesh out what your art is about. The secret to a good statement though is to refine it down to descriptive and distinct sentences about your work, not generalized statements that could relate to any contemporary art.
EX. I am a ceramic artist using traditional sculpting techniques paired with unconventional materials. I cut, weave, and reform trashed items into reimagined 3D art.
My art is influenced by consumerism, themes of scarcity and excess, and modern materials that refuse to decay.
Bright colors, empty wrappers, and plastic become the framework for art that resembles household items.
Each piece is an often uncomfortable invitation to examine the waste in life that piles up and gets stepped over in an effort to always have something new.
(Honestly, that art statement makes me so curious about this art and what it looks like. Definitely kitsch but I bet it works.)
When you write your artist statement, the most important thing is that the words reflect your honest intentions with your art. Sit and journal about your art, what you want it to say, what your hopes are, and then boldly share them in your statement.
HELPFUL TIPS
Don't use descriptive words that are so rare readers need a dictionary.
Relating or referencing common imagery can help create accurate mental images of your work (famous art periods or artists)
Focus on what you make and why you make it.
Your statement can be as long or as short as you'd like it to be.
Don't overthink it.