Top Tips for Writing Your Artist Bio (and Statement!)

Whether you're applying for a grant, exhibiting your work, or creating an online portfolio, a well-written artist bio and statement are vital. These tools don’t just tick a box; they’re your chance to help others understand your creative world and what drives it. Let’s break down the best tips for writing an engaging and professional artist bio and statement, inspired by advice from the National Association for the Visual Arts (NAVA).

What’s the Difference Between an Artist Bio and an Artist Statement?

Your artist statement is a short piece of writing that explains the ideas, themes, and methods behind your work. It’s where you get to talk about the why behind your art; what you care about, what you’re exploring, and how you go about making your work.

Your artist bio, on the other hand, is more about you. It’s a mini resume in paragraph form, sharing key career highlights, education, exhibitions, awards, and experience in the art world.

How to Write an Artist Statement

Your artist statement is like a bridge between you and your audience. It helps readers – whether they’re curators, potential buyers, or grant assessors – connect with your work and understand your creative intentions. Here are our top tips:

• Know Your Reader: Use clear, simple language. Avoid jargon and explain technical or conceptual terms if needed.
• Keep It Active and Direct: Use strong verbs and remove unnecessary fluff.
• Say It Out Loud: Speak it before and after you write to keep it in your voice.
• Highlight What Makes Your Work Unique: Focus on your key themes and distinctive style.
• Don’t Overdo It: Aim for clarity and brevity.
• Match the Tone of Your Work: Reflect your art’s mood while remaining professional.
• Be Honest and Clear: Talk about what your work is, not how great it is.
• Get Feedback: Show your draft to someone outside the art world and see if it makes sense.
• Allow Time for Rewrites: Leave space for editing and polishing your words.

A Simple Structure to Follow

• Paragraph 1: What is your art about? What materials or processes do you use?
• Paragraph 2: What are your goals? How are you evolving?
• Paragraph 3: Why does your work matter? What’s its relevance or contribution?

How to Write an Artist Bio

Your artist bio gives readers a snapshot of your career. Think of it as your professional story told in short form. It’s especially handy for websites, catalogues, and applications.

Top Tips for Your Bio:

• Tailor it to the context or application requirements.
• Choose your most relevant and impressive achievements.
• Stick to facts; no need to oversell.
• Group smaller events and expand on solo shows or awards.
• Let your experience shine through evidence, not empty claims.

A Simple Bio Template

• Paragraph 1: Education, training, or research; include where you studied or currently work.
• Paragraph 2: Exhibition history; include notable shows and collections.
• Paragraph 3: Awards, residencies, publications, or public engagements.

Final Thoughts

Writing about yourself can be tricky; but it’s also a fantastic way to reflect on your practice and take ownership of your creative journey. Don’t rush it, keep refining, and let your unique perspective shine through.

For more professional advice, artist resources, and support, visit visualarts.net.au.