How to Write an Artist Statement for Art Exhibitions

Imagine this - you’ve created beautiful paintings based on a powerful idea. But now, when you want to exhibit them in a reputed gallery, you realize one thing - just great artwork is not enough. Why? Because people love stories. And the most important story is your story.

Your artist statement is the story behind your work. The more interesting and unique you make it, the more people will connect with it.

Why Is an Artist Statement Important?

Curators and viewers want to know:

• What is the theme of your artwork?
  
  

• What medium and style do you use?
  
  

• What ideas or messages are you exploring?
  
  

When you write an artist statement for an exhibition, it should clearly explain all these points in a simple and engaging way.

Let’s look at the 4 main things to include:

1. Clearly Describe the Theme

What idea is your work based on?

Example:
“My theme is urban loneliness. I show people who feel alone, even in the middle of busy cities.”

2. Mention the Medium and Technique

What materials do you use? Do you follow any special process?

Example:
“I use acrylic paints and create bold textures using a palette knife, which helps me express emotions visually.”

3. Share Your Inspiration

Why did you make this series? Was it based on a personal experience, a social issue, or something you saw?

Example:
“During COVID, when everyone was locked inside their homes, I understood the importance of human connection - that became the base of my work.”

4. How Should People Feel When They See Your Work?

What do you want your viewers to feel, think, or reflect on when they look at your art?

Example:
“I want people to see my painting and feel the loneliness hidden in the lights of the city — and maybe become more sensitive towards others.”
Keep It Short and Clear

Try to write your artist statement in 100 to 150 words. It should be easy to read and understand — don’t use too many difficult words.

Use AI for Help (Optional)

If you're struggling to write it or want to make it more professional, you can also take help from AI tools like ChatGPT.
Here’s a prompt you can give to AI:

Prompt:
“My name is Avni. I create artworks based on the theme of urban loneliness. I’m planning an exhibition of my paintings. I need help writing a short artist statement that explains my theme, style, and thoughts behind the work - so that galleries can understand and connect with my work. What more details do you need from me?”

AI might ask you some simple questions - like your theme, medium, or inspiration, and then give you a clean and clear artist statement.

Watch our Art Marketing Series on YouTube for simple tips and examples made for artists.