When you are preparing for an exhibition, updating your website, or applying for an opportunity, you may be asked for both an artist statement and an artist bio. They are connected, but they do different jobs.
The easiest way to remember the difference is this: your artist statement is about your work, while your artist bio is about you and your career. The New York Foundation for the Arts similarly describes a bio as a record of your experience and accomplishments, and a statement as an explanation of the ideas and choices behind your artwork.
What is an artist statement?
An artist statement helps someone understand what you make and why you make it. It can explain the themes you explore, the materials or methods you use, and the questions that guide your practice.
Your statement can describe your overall work, or focus on one series or exhibition. Write in clear, direct language. A curator, visitor, or application reviewer should be able to read it and find a useful way into your work. You do not need complicated art-world language to sound professional.
What is an artist bio?
An artist bio is a short professional introduction to you and your background. It is usually written in the third person and may include where you are based, your education or training, selected exhibitions, awards, residencies, publications, or other relevant experience.
You do not need a long list of major achievements to write a good bio. If you are early in your career, you can mention your current studies, local exhibitions, artistic focus, or other experience that helps readers understand who you are. Think of it as a short, readable summary of the most relevant parts of your resume.
Keep both ready
It helps to keep a longer master version of each text, then adjust it for the word count and purpose of an exhibition, grant, open call, or website.
Your statement may change as your work develops or when you begin a new series. Your bio should change when you complete exhibitions, receive awards, or take part in new projects. Tailoring these materials for a particular audience is usually more effective than sending the same version everywhere.
Before you submit anything, ask yourself:
- Does my statement help someone understand the artwork?
- Does my bio quickly explain who I am as an artist?
When each document answers its own question, your materials are clearer and easier for galleries, juries, and visitors to use.
Where to keep them in Artlope
Keep both texts on your Profile page in Artlope. The Biography field is for your bio, while the separate Artist statement field is for the ideas, themes, and methods behind your work. See Profile Details for a clear guide to both fields.
Keep the supporting information for your bio current too, including education, awards, publications, and work history. CV Information explains where to record it. Artlope can reuse your profile information in portfolios, and your biography and artist statement can also appear on your public website’s About page. Learn more in Controlling Website Content From Other Pages.