Artist's Statement

Writing an Artist Statement by Jeff Collins
Originaly in Alberta Craft Magazine reprinted with permission from Alberta Craft Council

Most people find it relatively simple to write a resume and bio, but an artist statement is often more challenging.

In an artist statement length usually has nothing to do with the quality of its content. It attempts to answer the question: why did this person make this thing?

Here are some points to think about when putting your artist statement together: 1. Talk about your work itself. Explain about the materials you use and why you choose to use them, their features, recycled, rare or collected, local or exotic, etc. The skills and techniques you have mastered in order to make your work, unique techniques, length of learning curve, who taught you, etc. 2. Talk about your inspiration. Where do you get your image source and what attracts you to it? Is it traditional or contemporary or a combination of the two?

After you answer these questions start to think about the purpose of your artist statement - to provide insight into why you make the things you do, what challenges you to continue making them, and what you hope to accomplish by making the things you do. Write it as if you are having a conversation with a friend who wants to know about your work.

Artist's Statement Example

Cats With the Golden Eyes

"Cats" was inspired by my love of bright colours and this 'Yvonne Porcella' designed fabric. My three feline roommates are the 'wild things' in my life right now.
The technique is called Liberated Piecing - a free form, unstructured method of piecing quilt blocks.
The cats were embroidered by sewing machine using an embroidery card.

Title: Cats with the Golden Eyes
Year Completed: 2007
Size: 9" x 12"
Technique: Machine pieced, machine quilted, embroidery card design by Patrick Lose for Husqvarna Viking sewing machines.
Materials: Cotton fabrics, rayon and metallic threads.