what is an artist biography

How To Write An Artist Bio With Tips and Lots of Examples

I have summarized the more important parts of this article below. Let’s have a look at some tips for an artist bio and below it some tips for an artist bio for an emerging artist.

For a Professional Artist Biography:

• Keep it Short : Your biography should be a brief overview of key facts about your art career.
• Easy to Read : Start with a catchy first sentence to get the reader interested.
• Write as an Observer : Use the third person to talk about your art and career.
• Important Facts Only : Mention things like your birth date, nationality, job title, the art forms you use, your style and main themes, and other key career details.
• Ideal Length : Aim for about 120 words, but keep it between 80 and 140 words.

For an Emerging Artist Biography:

• Background Info : Mention where you were born and places you’ve lived.
• Artistic Roots : Talk about what or who inspires your art.
• Education in Art : If you’ve had any art training or education, include it.
• Self-Taught Artists : If you haven’t had formal training, explain how you’ve learned and developed your art skills on your own.

Keep reading as I cover the topic in more detail, giving artist bio examples and the like.

Writing an Artist biography is probably one of the hardest things I have had to write. If you are reading this then I assume you are struggling with this as well.

Whether you are an artist making modern art , a painter or a visual artist looking for representation in an art gallery then you need to get your artist bio done right.

What’s the difference between an artist biography, artist statement, and artist profile?

Here are some bullet points to summarize each for those who do not know the key differences.

Below are some bullet points that highlight the key differences between an artist biography, artist statement, and artist profile. I will then dive into more details of each with examples you can use.:

Artist Biography:

• Focuses on the artist’s life and career, often including personal information and significant events or achievements.
• Written in third-person perspective.
• Typically includes a summary of the artist’s education, influences, and creative process, as well as critical reception and awards.

Artist Statement:

• Focuses on the artist’s creative process and artistic vision.
• Written in first-person perspective.
• Typically includes a description of the artist’s style, techniques, themes, and motivations, as well as any philosophical or conceptual ideas that inform the work.

Artist Profile:

• Similar to a bio, but typically shorter and more concise.
• Often used as a promotional tool on social media, artist directories, or other online platforms.
• May include a brief bio, statement, and selected images of the artist’s work.
• Generally less formal than a traditional bio or statement, and may be written in first or third person.

What is an artist biography (Artist bio)?

Before we start, you should understand the difference between an artist biography and an artist statement vs an artist profile.

Each one serves its own purpose and should be used for a specific goal in mind.

In its simplest form, an artist biography is a summary of you as an artist in a few paragraphs (some say 50 words is all you need). Artist bios should detail your qualifications and any training you undertook as an artist (if you are not qualified you can just omit this part). You then detail your influences, your achievements and contact details. It is usually followed by a brief artist statement.

What to include in an artist biography about yourself

An artist biography needs to take into account the life and work of you as an artist. It usually covers significant events and accomplishments throughout your artistic career, as well as personal information that helps to understand the context in which your art was created.

An artist biography can also include information about your artistic education, influences, creative process, and the evolution of their style over time. It may also discuss the critical reception of their work, as well as any awards or recognition they have received.

Get to the point quickly

An artist bio should get to the point quickly. This is because the reader of the bio may have limited time or attention span, and may be looking for a quick summary of your artistic career and style.

A concise and well-organized bio can help to capture the reader’s interest and convey the most important information about your work in a short amount of time.

This can be really important in situations where you are trying to promote yourself or your art, such as when applying for grants, exhibitions, or other opportunities.

In addition, a clear and focused bio can help to establish your credibility and professionalism as an artist. It shows that you have a clear sense of your artistic identity and are able to communicate it effectively to others.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should sacrifice depth or detail in your bio. It’s important to strike a balance between brevity and substance, providing enough information to give the reader a sense of who you are as an artist and what makes your work unique.

Speak in your own voice

One thing to note, many artists refer to themselves in the third person which I believe can come across as a little pretentious.

Another pretentious artist is the last thing the world needs.

Here are some tips for writing an artist bio in your own voice:

• Start by brainstorming a list of the key points you want to convey about yourself and your work.
• Write in the first person (“I” instead of “the artist”).
• Use a conversational tone and avoid jargon or overly technical language.
• Highlight your unique qualities, experiences, and perspective.
• Include personal anecdotes or stories that illustrate your artistic journey.
• Focus on what motivates and inspires you as an artist.
• Be concise and to the point, keeping the reader’s attention in mind.
• Don’t be afraid to show some personality and express yourself creatively in the bio.
• Read your bio aloud to make sure it flows well and sounds natural.
• Have someone else read your bio and provide feedback on clarity and tone.

Here are some things not to include in your artist bio:

• Personal information that is not relevant to your art, such as your marital status or political beliefs.
• Negative or overly critical comments about other artists or art forms.
• A list of every single exhibition or show you have ever participated in. Instead, focus on the most significant or noteworthy ones. This is a big one ok!
• Unsubstantiated claims or exaggerations about your accomplishments or abilities.
• Vague or clichéd language that doesn’t really say anything about your work or style.
• Rambling or overly long paragraphs that make it difficult for the reader to follow.
• Too much technical jargon or insider terminology that may not be easily understood by a general audience.
• Personal opinions that may be divisive or controversial, unless they are integral to your artistic vision or message.
• Information that may compromise your privacy or security, such as your home address or phone number.

Using your own voice makes you more relatable.

Click here if you wish to skip to the section on How to write an artist bio with steps and examples.

Can a non-artist write an artist bio for you?

Artist biographies can also be written by art historians, curators or other experts in the field. This is because artist bios can also be found in exhibition catalogs, art books , and online resources.

A great artist bio can provide valuable insights into your artistic life and work and can help to deepen our understanding and appreciation of your art, especially if art lovers find something in your back story that they can relate to.

What is an Artist Statement

An artist’s statement is a brief description of your work as a whole. The purpose of an artist statement is to give anyone looking at your work some context around why you work a certain way so that they can either connect with you or the subject matter. The artist statement should cover the “why” you do things and not the “who you are”.

You would usually include an artist statement as part of the artist biography.

For more information on Artist’s Statements, wikipedia has some further reading.

What is an Artist Profile

The Artist Profile is quite interesting, it is a mix of both the artist bio and artist statement. The difference is the artist profile packages both pieces of information into an interesting page designed to ‘hook’ the reader into wanting to learn more about you as the artist as well as your art and your interests.

Think of the artist profile as the first page of a really interesting novel, designed to make the reader want to keep reading and learn more.

Use good story-telling techniques when planning your artist profile.

If you are struggling to write an Artist Biography and Artist Statement, try writing an Artist Profile instead as it lets you channel your creative energy rather than following a boring format.

Here is an example of an Artist Bio with an Artist Statement

Here are some real examples of artist profiles (some famous artists some not)

Anselm Kiefer

Someone like Anselm who has a long and distinguished career, his artist bio can start to look like a long laundry list of accomplishments and doesn’t actually tell us anything new. My tip is to not follow this example (see below for an image or click on the link above to view his page)

Do not write a laundry list of accomplishments and facts!

Rhian Malin (though it is written in the 3rd person..)

I quite like Rhian’s artist bio even though it is written in the 3rd person. But if you take a look at their artist biography you will notice that the first line makes her personable. She was inspired by her grandmother’s collection. We can all relate to seeing something at a grandparent’s home that would have awed us as children and then went on to influence us. Be personable.

Rhian then describes their approach and where they work. The list of accomplishments are not a laundry list and they appear at the bottom making you believe that accomplishments are a by product of inspiration and making art.

I quite like Rhian’s approach.

Larry Poons

Larry Poons also follows the more traditional approach to writing an artist biography. It is the typical laundry list of accomplishments and facts but what I do like is the photo. It is not a pretentious professional photo of the artist in a black turtleneck trying to look cool. The photo looks more natural.

Jeff Koons – As he has so many achievements, Jeff’s website also has formatted his bio into sections covering Awards and Honors , Talks and Lectures and Collections .

Another list of accomplishments and an unnaturally posed photo. Please do not go down this path of a boring artist bio, be original and be likeable. Make yourself relatable.

Be original, personable and likeable. Stay true to character and do not appear fake.

Why write an artist biography (bio). What is the purpose of an artist bio?

What is the purpose of writing an artist bio? Is it for vanity, was it requested by art galleries or was it just so that you could be found in search engines?

Most artists write an artist bio because other artists have written one. Pretty simple.

Personally I don’t have a formal artist bio written and the only time I pull one together is when I am entering an art competition and it is part of the entry form.

When we write our artist biography we need to ask ourselves “Who is it for?” You should write to your audience and not to yourself.

An artist bio Is like an informal Resume

Writing an artist bio is a bit like a resume. It can feel cold, impersonal and detached.

When we write a resume we are writing for a specific audience such as a recruiter but the goal is the same.

When we write an Artist Bio:

• We are writing to a curator or collector.
• We want them to know our skills
• We want them to know our qualifications
• We want them to know what we are good at
• We want them to know what makes us so much better than the next person that the reader will want to invest in us, our art
• and finally we want them to know WHY we became an artist and why we are pursuing the arts.

Give people your “why” when creating an artist bio

When you write an artist biography I have found it to be actually quite harder than a resume.

When we write a resume we tend to be able to be more objective about our skills, work and achievements but with art, we are emotionally invested and being an artist is core to our self identity.

Types of artist biographies

Artist biography for self taught artists.

Self taught artists may believe the lack of a formal qualification or training in the arts may preclude them from needing an artist biography.

I suffered from an inferiority complex for many years as I too am a self taught artist.

Self taught artists can usually do well with an artist profile instead of an artist bio as it can gloss over or skip over any need to highlight their qualifications.

So if you are a self taught artist, write your artist biography listing all your achievements, influences, showings, sales and include an artist statement.

Then when it comes to qualifications, highlight that you have been an artist for X amount of years, highlight your experience over any qualifications.

Experience can be better than education

Now I’ll get on my high horse.. Not being formally trained is not a hindrance. In fact, an art degree or tertiary qualification is actually only a recent thing for artists. Most artists until the 20th century were trained as artist apprentices or self taught. None had a piece of paper proclaiming that they were now part of the creative elite!

As we no longer have artists guilds to confirm our skills as an artist, then some use a degree or diploma as a proxy. Though this does not guarantee that you are as good an artist as any other.

Artist Biography for Qualified Artists

Many contemporary artists have some form of qualification they will include in their artist biography. If you have a certification in a specific field, or use of a specific tool then note that down.

Otherwise your artist biography and artist statement should read like any other.

Artist Biography for Beginner artist biography

When you are a beginner artist your experience will be little, you may not have even had a showing yet and you may not have any qualifications.

When I was 17 I entered the Doug Moran National Portrait prize (in Australia) which is a $100,000 Acquisitive portrait prize.

I had about 5 years of artist experience under my belt, 1 showing in my high school where I won first prize for a portrait of Marilyn Monroe and 2 sales of my paintings.

The prizes required I submit an artist bio and artist statement. I did not know what to do so I left it all blank.

Today I would give the same advice as I give to self taught artists, highlight your achievements to date and not add anything negative.

Remember my resume example. When we start working we have nothing to add as experience but we document all the transferable skills we have all that we can offer.

As a beginner artist, add what you have done to date and be proud of that. If you have not done anything of note yet, then note what your influences are and where you want to go with your art career.

What should an artist biography include?

What to include in an artist biography.

Images – Should I include an image of myself?

Just like in a resume, unless you are one extremely good looking person or you have a very original look that can help with your persona or help people remember you (think of Dali’s moustache) then do not include an image or photo of yourself.

Ensure you provide any links to where you have exhibited.

Ensure you provide any links to where you have sold your works. If you are unable to link to article showing a sale, then note down the item sold, when it was sold and the details of the artwork.

You do not need to note the price it sold for or who purchased the artwork.

Where possible, link to any articles about you or your works that are of note.

How to write an artist biography about yourself

The best way to write an artist biography is to start looking at the artist biography examples found on the internet.

The hardest thing I found was collating all the information I wanted to include in my bio. What I found was when I just did a brain dump without putting my thought into dates etc it was easier.

The first things you should do, using sticky notes:

• Collect and organise any courses you have completed. Don’t worry about the years commenced or completed.
• Write down keywords that you would use to describe your influences and put these aside. These can be art styles, people or places.
• Write down why you do what you do as an artist, was it something you have known since you can remember? Was it a specific experience?
• Write down any key achievements you have had so far in your art career.
• Your name and where you live and where you typically work from
• What styles or mediums do you work in?

Once you have these noted down, you actually have the key points required for an artist biography. All we need to do now is start writing the artist bio.

How do you start a biography?

Grab those sticky notes we just wrote. Put them in this order:

• Why you do what you do as an artist, that something you have known since you can remember or that specific experience.
• Those keywords that you used to describe your influences. The art styles, people or places.
• The styles or mediums do you work in
• The courses you have completed.
• The key achievements you have had so far in your art career.

Now that you have put all the raw data into some meaningful order, you just need to pad these out into properly worded paragraphs and ensure that they have a natural flow to them.

If you find that hard to do then take a look at some real artist biography examples to draw inspiration from. Find a few you like and experiment.

Artist Biography Examples

How to write an artist biography sample.

Here are some real examples of artist biographies to draw inspiration from. Note : One take away from all the examples I researched (apart from Rita Ackermann) is that they were all badly formatted and hard to read.

So please take some time to ensure that your artist biography is formatted so that it is easy to read on a computer and also on a smartphone.

EVELYN SOSA

Cuban, born 1989.

An Award winning photographer, Evelyn Sosa Rojas was born in 1989 in Havana, Cuba, where she still lives and work. In her practice, since 2008, Sosa specializes in amazingly soulful portraits. Sosa shows the power of femininity through photos of women in different familiar or intimate settings. In 2016, Sosa was the winner of the Herman Puig Prize, awarded yearly to the best artist of the Body Photography Salon in Havana. In her powerful series “Women’s portraits”, Sosa captures the very essence of each subject in a simple, sensual and compelling way. Sosa has an ability to capture the depth of the eyes and gaze, showing the subject soul and deep thoughts. In 2019, Uncommon Beauty published a photo-book , HAVANA INTIMATE, through the lens of Evelyn Sosa. In a scholarly essay written for the book, Grethel Morell Otero, the recipient of the 2019 Cuban National Curator Award, and a published authority in Cuban photography wrote: “her (Sosa) work represents something of a vanguard movement in contemporary artistic photography’. Website

Joseph Rolella

Born in Sydney in 1972, Rolella completed a Bachelor of Visual Arts (Honours) in 1994 and went on to obtain a Masters in Visual Arts at the University of Western Sydney in 1998. Joseph Rolella has exhibited consistently for the past twelve years both nationally and internationally. Rolella has won several major art prizes including the Australian Cricket Art Prize in 2011 for the painting “Cricket at Kandahar”. The Oakhill Grammer School Art Prize in 2013 as well as being selected as a semi-finalist for the prestigious Doug Moran Portrait Prize. Complex and contradictory, Rolella’s recent abstract paintings seek to expose a delicate equilibrium between a sense of balance and visual calm and the tumult of painterly texture and surface tension. The play of light at the waters edge…

SOFIA AREAL  (Lisbon, 1960)

Begins her studies 1979 at the Hertfordshire College of Art and Design in St Albans, UK. In Portugal she studied etching and painting at Ar.Co. (Art and Visual Communication Center).

Her first group exhibition was in 1982 at the 1ª Mostra de Artes in Lagos, Portugal and her first solo show was in 1990 at Galeria Alda Cortez, Lisbon. Since then, Sofia has exhibited in various countries individually and collectively. She had a retrospective exhibition covering the last 10 years of her career in 2011 at the Galeria da Cordoaria Nacional the exhibition was accompanied by a book published by Babel, with texts of among others: Jorge Silva Melo and Professor Luís Campos e Cunha. In 2012 Areal illustrates the literary magazine published by Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, Colóquio Letras. In 2013 launches a book together with Harvard Professor, Allan Hobson – “ Creativity”. Since 2013, Areal has started an international exhibition program, in Macau – Orient Foundation 2014, Oslo – Embassy Art Space 2015 and Dublin in 2016. In the same year a film by Jorge Silva Melo, “Sofia Areal: Um Gabinete Anti-Dor” premiers. In 2017 Areal continues a series of exhibitions, started in 2016 in quARTel das Artes in Abrantes, about her own private collection in Lagos Cultural Centre, followed by MUDAS. Contemporary Art Museum of Madeira and Centro Cultural Raiano – a series, which will continue in 2019. In the same year Areal will have an exhibition in the Portuguese Cultural Centre in Luxembourg. In 2017-2018 creates a tiles panel is together with a group of artists and 3 individual ones, all with Ratton Gallery in Lisbon.

Great example of a short artist biography

A short bio is a good idea for any artist whether you want to present your skills for a solo exhibition for fine art or just for a social media platform such as for an Instagram profile.

Rita Ackermann Biography

Born : Budapest, Hungary, 1968

Education :

The New York Studio School of Painting, Drawing and Sculpture (Hanes Foundation), New York NY, 1992 – 1993 Academy of Fine Arts, Budapest, Hungary, 1989 – 1992

Resides: Lives and works in New York NY

SOLO EXHIBITIONS

2019 Hauser & Wirth, ‘Rita Ackermann. Brother and Sister’, Zürich, Switzerland

2018 La Triennale di Milano, ‘Rita Ackermann. Movements as Monuments’, Milan, Italy VIEWING ROOM, Marlborough Contemporary, ‘Rita Ackermann and Carol Rama: Body Matters’, New York NY

How to write an artist biography using a template

You can follow this simple template if you want to skip the sticky note exercise from the previous steps.

As I do not like referring to myself in the third person I will move away from your typical artist biography examples and make it a little more personable.

“ My name is [Insert your name], I was born in [insert town/city/country] in [year]. My first experiences as an artist was when [insert time period in life or formative experience].

My influences were [insert influences].

It was here that I realized that I wanted to pursue my career in this field.

I went on to study [insert course and institution] where I earned my qualifications in [insert field of study].

It was here that I furthered expanded on my knowledge in [insert fields of interest], where I [insert key achievements].

I work primarily in [insert mediums] and I currently work from [insert location] and [any other locations of interest]. “

Self taught artist bio sample

For self taught artists, your artist bio will be the same as all the examples but without listing any formal qualifications. Using the template above, I have modified it to make it suitable for self taught artists.

The focus for a self taught artist is to focus on your practical experience and what you did in lieu of formal training.

I believe that being an artist is something that one is born to do an not learned at school, I went on to study through practical experience, learning through trial and error and self learning studying the works of [insert influences] as my teachers .

50 word artist bio example

Describe yourself in 50 words or less. This is much harder to do than you may think.

If you must provide an artist biography in 50 words or less then focus on the key information and remove the filler words that we tend to use when describing ourselves and our achievements.

When creating a 50 words or less artist bio, use simple headings and bullet points and stick to the point.

“ My name is [Insert your name]. Born in [insert town/city/country] in [year].

I work primarily in [insert main medium]

My influences are [insert influences].

I obtained a [insert qualification] from [institution].

(I am represented by [insert gallery]) or (I have exhibited in [insert shows]) or (I have won [insert main prizes])

I currently work from [insert location] and [any other locations of interest]. “

Still struggling to write an Artist Bio?

I found this cool site, it generates artist statements and biographies. All you need to do is click “Generate Some Bollocks” .

First Draft of an artist biography

Have someone write the outline for you.

If you find it hard to write about yourself, find someone you trust and hand over your sticky notes and ask them to write the artist biography for you using the templates as a guide.

You will find that someone who knows you well will remember to add other information about you that you may have forgotten to include or too embarrassed to include.

Once they have a draft, read through it out loud with them and see if it makes sense and look at areas for improvement.

My English is not good, what do I do?

If your english is not as good as you like, that is totally fine. If anything it is an advantage as you can now have a bilingual artist bio.

You can have your artist bio written in your native language for your native audience and then ask someone you trust to translate it to English or pay a small fee on Upwork or Freelancer to translate your artist biography for you.

If you do not want to pay someone, you can give Google Translate a try and see how that comes up. Speaking from experience when I tried to translate text from English to Italian, be careful as this does not always give the best results.

Review and review again

Again, with anything your write you should review it yourself and then ask someone you trust to review it again for you.

Check for grammar and spelling.

Common mistakes in artist biographies

Contrary to my advice about writing in the first person, some say that your artist biography should be written in the third person to give the impression that it was written by someone else and that it sounds more authoritative.

Unless your artist biography was actually written by a third person I disagree with this advice. We know you wrote this so why pretend it wasn’t.

Secondly, if you are an unknown and not professionally represented, most people in the industry will know you bring little authority with you. That’s the sad truth.

The next mistake is to fail to tell an interesting story about your journey as an artist. Note down any gaps in your career and explain why, sometimes the gaps are as interesting as the art journey itself.

Taking care of children, sick family, going to war, being in accident can all be used as part of your narrative and drawn on for inspiration.

Think of all the books you read that you could not put down, they told an interesting story you could relate to and the characters were usually likeable and not pretentious.

Which leads to the next mistake, do not big note yourself or embellish your achievements. Do not lie about your achievements. With the internet available to most people on their phones, most facts can be easily verified.

The next mistake is to write an artist statement when an artist biography was requested.

Other mistakes when writing an artist bio are spelling mistakes grammar mistakes, not proofreading your draft, and the final mistake artists make when writing their artist biography is forgetting to tell the why they became an artist.

How to write an Artist Bio – Wrap up!

As I mentioned earlier, writing an artist bio is a bit like a resume but it’s all part of the art business. It can feel cold, impersonal and detached. This is the reason why I prefer an Artist Profile instead.

I would format the artist profile to include the initial hook paragraphs to get your readers interested in knowing more.

I would then follow the lead from the examples provided and include information that you would usually see in an artist biography.

Keep it up to date

Remember, as artists we are always changing and progressing. This means whether you are using an Artist Biography, Artists Statement or Artist Profile, these should be updated to reflect where you are in life and as an artist at that point in time.

It should change as you change. Keep some of the older information in there so your reader can follow your career and influences progressions.

These tell a story about you and remember there is no such thing as a perfect artist bio or artists cv. You just want to convey enough about yourself for potential clients and for a fellow artist.

Rewrite and Review

Each time you make an update, review what you wrote and do not be afraid to re-write it all if it no longer applies to who you are today.

Get someone to proofread your artist bio and take on any constructive criticism.

Good luck! If you have any of your own artist biographies that you would like linked to this article, please send through a message on the contact-me page.

If it is suitable, I will include it in the list of Artist Biography Examples.

Joseph Colella (Joe Colella) is an Editor and Writer at WastedTalentInc. As a frustrated artist with over 40 years experience making art (who moonlights as a certified Business Analyst with over 20 years of experience in tech).

While Joseph holds a Diploma in Information Technology, in true wasted talent fashion he spent years applying for various Art degrees; from the Accademia di Belle Arti (Napoli), to failing to get into the Bachelor of Arts (Fine Arts) at the University of Western Sydney.

While he jokes about his failures at gaining formal art qualifications, as a self-taught artist he has had a fruitful career in business, technology and the arts making Art his full time source of income from the age of 18 until 25.

His goal is to attend the Julian Ashton School of Art at The Rocks Sydney when he retires from full time work. Joseph’s art has been sold to private collectors all over the world from the USA, Europe and Australasia.

He is a trusted source for reliable art advice and tutorials to copyright/fair use advice and is committed to helping his readers make informed decisions about making them a better artist.

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Chris Wilson

10 Examples of artist bios: How to write a super artist bio

Examples of artist bios often include key elements like the artist's name, area of expertise, career milestones, personal interests, and contact info. They're tailored to engage the audience while reflecting the artist's unique voice and journey.

Ever find yourself staring at a blank screen, wondering how to condense your artistic journey into a few paragraphs?

Trust me, you're not alone.

An artist bio isn't just a list of facts; it's a narrative that invites people into your creative world.

So, why is it so crucial?

Well, it's your handshake with the audience, a way to say, “Hey, this is me, and this is my art.”

Stick around as we go into the how-tos and examples of artist bios that make a lasting impression.

Key Takeaways

• Define your artistic identity clearly : Your bio is your opportunity to introduce not just your art, but who you are as an artist. It should include your medium, inspiration, and artistic goals. This clarity helps in aligning your business plan with your art, ensuring your marketing strategies and portfolio resonate with your artistic vision.
• Use your unique voice : Inject your personality into your bio to make it stand out. Whether your tone is serious, whimsical, or quirky, ensure it reflects the uniqueness of your art. This authenticity makes your bio more engaging and memorable, inviting your audience into your creative world.
• Update regularly : As your artistic journey evolves, so should your bio. Regular updates reflecting new milestones, exhibitions, or shifts in your artistic focus keep your audience informed and engaged. This dynamic approach ensures your bio remains relevant and an accurate reflection of your current artistic identity.

Defining Yourself as an Artist in Your Bio Informs Your Business Plan

There is an interesting interplay between your artist bio and your business plan.

You see, your artist bio isn't just a narrative; it's a declaration of your artistic identity . It's where you lay out your style, your inspirations, your goals—essentially, it's where you define who you are as an artist.

And guess what?

When you're clear about your artistic identity in your bio, it becomes easier to map out a business plan that truly aligns with your art and your aspirations.

Your bio can help you identify your target audience, decide on the right marketing strategies, and even guide you in creating a portfolio that resonates with your artistic vision.

The Artist Bio vs. The Artist Statement: What's the Difference?

The artist bio and the artist statement—two essential pieces of writing, yet each serves a distinct purpose in the world of art.

Your artist bio is like the opening scene of a film; it sets the stage and introduces the characters. It's a narrative that tells the story of you—the artist. It covers your journey, your influences, your achievements, and even a bit of your personality. It's a comprehensive look at who you are, aimed at engaging the audience and making them want to know more about you and, by extension, your art.

Now, the artist statement, that's a different beast altogether.

Think of it as a spotlight that shines exclusively on a specific body of work. It's your chance to delve deep into your artistic process, the themes you explore, and the techniques you employ.

While your bio might say, “I'm a painter inspired by nature,” your artist statement would elaborate on how the colors of autumn leaves influence your palette, or how the texture of tree bark finds its way into your brush strokes. It's more focused, more immediate, and speaks directly to the art that's right in front of the viewer.

So, while your bio draws people into your world, your artist statement guides them through a specific landscape within that world.

Writing the Perfect Artist Bio

Your artistic title: what's your medium.

First things first, let's get clear on what you do.

Are you a painter, a digital artist, or maybe a sculptor?

Your title sets the stage, so make it clear and precise.

Your Home Base: Where's Your Creative Den?

Your location can say a lot about you and your art.

Whether you're soaking up the urban vibes of a bustling city or drawing inspiration from a tranquil countryside, let people know where you're coming from—literally.

Your Milestones: What's Your Artistic Journey?

Here's where you can brag a little. Got any exhibitions, awards, or significant projects under your belt? This is the time to shine a spotlight on them.

A Dash of You: What Makes You Tick?

Throw in some personal tidbits to make your bio relatable. Are you a coffee addict, a night owl, or maybe a hiking enthusiast? These little details can make you more memorable.

Stay Connected: How Can We Reach You?

Don't forget to include ways people can connect with you. Your website, social media handles, and other contact information should be easily accessible.

Tips for Improving Your Artist Bio

Crafting an artist bio is like painting a self-portrait with words. It's a small canvas, but it can make a big impact.

Here are some tips that'll help you brush up your bio and make it a masterpiece.

Understand the Audience

First off, know who you're talking to.

Are you aiming for gallery curators, potential clients, or a broader audience on social media?

Tailoring your tone and content based on your audience can make your bio resonate more effectively.

For instance, if your primary audience is other artists, you might want to delve into the nitty-gritty of your techniques.

Use Your Unique Voice

Your art is unique, and so are you.

Let your personality shine through your writing. Whether you're quirky, serious, or whimsical, your voice should be consistent with the art you create.

This adds a layer of authenticity and makes your bio more engaging.

Consider Length Requirements

How long should it be?

Well, it depends on where your bio will be published.

If it's for a gallery submission, they might have specific word limits.

On your own website, you have more freedom.

But remember, a bio is like a good sketch—detailed enough to be interesting, but not so much that it becomes a full-blown painting.

Additional Artist Bio Tips

• Avoid Jargon : Unless your audience is well-versed in art terminology, keep it simple. You want to invite people into your world, not alienate them.
• Be Honest, Be You : Authenticity shines brighter than any embellishment. Your bio should be a true reflection of who you are as an artist.
• Proofreading is Your Friend : Before publishing, make sure to proofread your bio. A typo can be a small thing that takes away from the overall picture. Maybe even get a second pair of eyes to look it over.
• Update, Update, Update : Your art evolves, and so should your bio. Every time there's a significant change in your artistic journey, take a moment to update your bio.

Examples of Artist Bios

Example 1: the landscape painter.

Sarah Green – Your Friendly Neighborhood Landscape Painter

I'm Sarah Green, and I'm carving my path as a landscape painter right here in the heart of Maplewood. I'm honing my skills at Maplewood Community College's Fine Arts program and have had the joy of showcasing my work at local art fairs.

My art is a love letter to Mother Nature, capturing her in her most tranquil moments.

When I'm not with my easel and paints, you'll find me trekking through local trails or lending a hand at our community animal shelter. Nature and critters aren't just my muse; they're my world.

Curious to see my work or just want to chat? Swing by my website or give me a follow on Instagram. Let's connect!

Example 2: The Fine Art Photographer

Tim Lee – Capturing the Urban Jungle Through My Lens

I'm Tim Lee, a budding fine art photographer rooted in the vibrant city of Chicago. I've taken some killer online courses and even had my work grace the walls of a local café.

My lens is drawn to the raw energy of city life—graffiti, faces, and all the little things that make our urban world tick.

When I'm not behind the camera, you'll catch me sipping on some artisanal coffee or cruising the streets on my skateboard. The city isn't just my canvas; it's my playground.

Want to reach out? You can find me and my work on my website or get a daily dose of my urban adventures on Twitter.

Example 3: The Abstract Painter

Emily Patel – Diving Into the Emotional Depths of Abstract Art

Hello, beautiful people! I'm Emily Patel, an up-and-coming abstract painter soaking up the sun in San Diego. I'm a self-taught artist, and I'm just beginning to dip my toes into the colorful world of abstract painting.

My art is a journey through emotions, guided by a symphony of colors and textures.

When I'm not lost in my art, I find peace in yoga and inspiration in poetry—both of which seep into my work.

Want to connect or explore my art? Feel free to visit my brand-new website or follow my artistic journey on Facebook.

Example 4: The Sculptor Finding Beauty in the Mundane

Mark Thompson – Sculpting Everyday Objects into Art

I'm Mark Thompson, a sculptor based in the artsy town of Asheville. I've studied at the Asheville School of Art and have been featured in several local exhibitions.

My sculptures turn everyday objects into something extraordinary, challenging how we view the world around us.

When I'm not sculpting, I'm usually found at flea markets hunting for my next inspiration or playing the guitar.

Interested in my work? Visit my website or follow me on Pinterest for my latest creations.

Example 5: The Digital Artist with a Social Message

Lisa Kim – Digital Art for Social Change

I'm Lisa Kim, a digital artist operating out of New York City. I've completed a digital art course from NYU and my art often appears in online social campaigns.

My digital canvases are platforms for social justice, aiming to provoke thought and inspire change.

Outside of art, I'm an avid reader and a volunteer at a local food bank.

Feel free to check out my portfolio online or connect with me on LinkedIn.

Example 6: The Watercolor Artist Inspired by Travel

Carlos Rivera – Painting the World One Brushstroke at a Time

I'm Carlos Rivera, a watercolor artist who finds inspiration from my travels. I've studied art in Spain and have exhibited my work in various European cities.

My art is a passport to different cultures, capturing the essence of places I've visited.

When I'm not painting, I'm planning my next adventure or cooking up some international cuisine.

You can find my work and travel stories on my blog or follow me on Instagram.

Example 7: The Mixed Media Artist

Angela White – Mixing Media, Mixing Messages

I'm Angela White, a mixed media artist based in San Francisco. I've taken workshops from renowned artists and have participated in group shows.

My art blends materials and messages, creating a unique narrative in each piece.

In my free time, I enjoy hiking and have a soft spot for vintage fashion.

To see my latest projects or to get in touch, visit my website or find me on Etsy.

Example 8: The Portrait Artist with a Twist

Jake O'Brien – Portraits That Tell a Story

Hey folks! I'm Jake O'Brien, a portrait artist from Boston. I've studied at the Boston School of Fine Arts and my work has been featured in several local galleries.

My portraits aren't just faces; they're stories waiting to be told.

When I'm not painting, I'm usually found at jazz clubs or writing short stories.

Curious about my work? Check out my portfolio on my website or follow me on Tumblr.

Example 9: The Environmental Artist

Fiona Chen – Art for Earth's Sake

I'm Fiona Chen, an environmental artist based in Vancouver. I've collaborated with environmental organizations and have had my installations displayed at eco-festivals.

My art is a call to action, aiming to raise awareness about environmental issues.

Outside of my art, I'm an active member of local environmental groups and a weekend gardener.

To learn more or to collaborate, visit my website or connect with me on LinkedIn.

Example 10: The Ceramic Artist

Raj Kaur – Crafting Stories in Clay

I'm Raj Kaur, a ceramic artist from London. I've trained under master potters and have my own studio where I teach pottery classes.

My ceramics are more than objects; they're vessels of stories and traditions.

When I'm not at the wheel, I enjoy cooking and exploring local art scenes.

Interested? You can find my pieces and upcoming classes on my website or follow me on Pinterest.

FAQs and Additional Tips for Your Artist Bio

Crafting an artist bio isn't just about listing facts; it's about telling a story, your story .

Here are some frequently asked questions and additional tips that can help you make your bio not just informative but also engaging and reflective of your unique artistic voice.

How Can You Infuse Your Unique Artistic Voice Into Your Bio?

Your bio should be as unique as your art.

Use descriptive language that reflects your artistic style. If your art is whimsical and colorful, let that show in your choice of words. If it's dark and moody, your bio can reflect that tone.

Your bio should feel like an extension of your art, offering a textual snapshot of what you bring to the canvas, the sculpture, or the lens.

What Aspects of Your Artistic Journey Are Most Compelling and Should Be Highlighted?

Think about the milestones and experiences that have shaped you as an artist.

Did a particular event or person inspire you to take up art?

Have you won awards or participated in exhibitions?

Maybe you've traveled to unique places for your art?

These are the stories that make you interesting and relatable. Include them to give a fuller picture of who you are.

How Can Your Bio Serve as a Tool for Audience Engagement and Even Advocacy for Causes You Care About?

Your bio isn't just a CV; it's a platform.

If you're passionate about certain causes, like environmental conservation or social justice, your bio is a space to advocate for these issues. Mention projects or artworks that reflect these causes.

It not only shows that you stand for something but also attracts like-minded individuals who may become supporters of both your art and your cause.

How to Write an Artist Biography? (BONUS: Artist Biography Examples)

• Last Updated: March 7, 2024

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Are you going blank at the thought of writing an artist bio?

It’s okay! Artist bios are actually not all that complicated to write, there’s not much for you to learn about before you can start doing it.

As for what you do need to know, continue reading below to see some artist biography examples and find out:

What Is an Artist Bio?

1. point of view, 2. keep artist bios short and concise, 3. focus on answering the key questions, step 1. state your name and background, step 2. introduce your artist journey, step 3. talk about your art style, step 4. discuss your personal influences and inspiration, step 5. list your artistic achievements, 1. professional presentation, 2. gallery or exhibition submission, 3. personal or business website, final thoughts:.

Artist bios are short pieces of writing that include the details of an artist’s life and work. It’s written to serve as the connecting bridge between the artist and the rest of the world.

You can put it on your website, social media, art portfolio, resume, etc. so that your audience and other interested parties can get to know you and your art without having to do deep research themselves.

Things You Should Know Before Writing an Artist Bio

Before we move on to the tutorial, let’s talk about some general rules for drafting a good bio agreed upon by most artists:

The point of view most accepted by most people is third-person POV. Third-person POV is best because it looks more formal and is more easily acceptable for others to read.

To say it bluntly, most people think that writing distantly like this makes it sound like others are talking about you. Rather than you bragging or selling yourself directly.

Of course, not everyone writes their artist bios so distantly. There are some artists who still prefer the more intimate first-person POV for their artist bios. Primarily because it always sounds like you’re talking to your audience directly in this way. So it seems more personal.

Although there is no strict rule when it comes to exactly how long an artist bio should be, it’s always best to keep it short and concise — lest visitors lose interest as soon as they see it.

The general rule of thumb for creating the perfect artist bio is to keep it to a single paragraph — two at most! The paragraph can be a bit longer if need be but try not to make it so long that it takes up the whole page.

Note! It makes sense for artist bios to be long on some occasions. But if you take a look at the artist bio in the image below, you can see how easy it is to lose your focus when you see a page with such a large word count. Readers call long bios that take up a whole page like this ‘wall labels’ because there are so many words that it becomes visually distracting.

If you want to write a long artist bio like this, it’s best to preface it with a short and concise sentence or paragraph, like the one shown on Timothy Goodman’s website.

Put it in bold and make the font bigger so that it can stand out! That way, you can grab the reader’s attention at the first line and allow them to sink their teeth in first.

As a plus, this practice of keeping artist bios short is helpful for search engine optimization. At least, it makes it more likely for your art website to show up above other artists on search engines.

Finally, the most important thing about writing the perfect artist bio is to give the reader the information that they want. For exact details, you can take a look at the tutorial written in the next section.

The key thing is to remember that the purpose of creating an artist bio is to introduce yourself and your value as an artist. So, try not to get too side-tracked.

To give you some reference, have a look at Alexander Calder’s artist bio. Alexander Calder is an American sculptor best known for creating the first mobile art in history.

Most people who go to his website are looking for information about this detail. As such, his accomplishments in this area are the focus of his bio. Not only does it mention the fact that his father was also a sculptor, but also that he had created his first sculptures when he was a child.

It even talked about a specific sculpture that he had worked on and emphasized his talent in that area. And it does all of this without overstating anything, which only makes the audience reading the summary more interested in his professional work and style.

How to Write an Artist Bio?

Alright, now that we’ve finished getting to know some of the more important rules, let’s start drafting artist bios ASAP! For this, we’ve prepared an in-depth tutorial:

To start writing a bio, your first sentence should include your name and your background.

As can be seen in the artist bio example below, Sophie Kahn introduced her name in the first sentence and then talked about her modern art career and background — she was born in Melbourn, Australia and now lives in Brooklyn, New York.

This part usually only takes up one sentence. The artist bio example above takes up two sentences, which is okay, but it’s still preferable to state this as briefly as possible — like in Samantha Keely Smith’s bio below.

After stating your name and background, you can spare a sentence or two to talk about your artist journey.

How did you get your start? Are you like Michelle Carlos, who slowly developed a love for art after doodling on the walls of her home? What about after? Did you also go to professional art school with your fellow artists to further your career?

These are things that are easy for your audience to relate to. Which makes it the perfect conversation starter. Much better than tossing out academic jargon right off the bat, at least.

What makes you unique as an artist? Or rather, what makes you as an artist important? The purpose of talking about your style in artist bios is to answer these questions.

It allows other artists and art enthusiasts to get to know the real you and maybe get in touch with your artist’s practice.

Next, you can talk about your influences and the source of your inspiration. Influences involve idols that act as spiritual support. Maybe you were influenced by other artist’s practices. Or maybe you’re particularly fond of a certain style used by an artist in history.

You can mention this briefly to let others know what influenced you to create your art.

As for inspiration, you can give some examples like Ashley in the artist bio example below. It’s worth noting things like this in your biography so that other artists can understand where the source of your creativity comes from as an artist.

Next up, it’s finally time to talk about your achievements. These don’t have to be particularly fancy or formal. Try to draft a description of your achievements in simple language. Whether it’s about awards won, exhibitions opened, illustrations sold, etc.

Note, even if you have many achievements to talk about, it’s best to focus on one or two in your bio. You can talk about the rest in a separate artist statement.

For example, for artists who focus on architecture , having their art exhibited at the Venice Biennale is one of their biggest achievements. Making it worth noting over other awards they may have received during their career.

If you really don’t want to limit the information shared, there are many examples of artists who create separate artist statements along with their shorter artist bio so that interested parties can get a more comprehensive view of their work experience and views. Just like the example artist statement shown below, which focuses on the artist’s practice and style:

3 Unique Artist Biography Examples for Different Purposes

Although we’ve taught you how to write a bio, these are just basic standard rules. You have to be open to making some changes based on the requirements of the bio that needs to be written. To illustrate this, have a look at the following list of examples:

The first type of bio that we’ll be talking about is the ‘professional’ type. This is used by artists who want to create an art portfolio where fellow artists and other interested parties can view their art. For this reason, the structure of the bio is often very formal and neat.

Just like the artist bio example above. It has all the key points but focuses more on her works and uses formal language.

If your purpose for writing an introduction is to submit your art to galleries and exhibitions, then the focus should be on successful exhibitions and the style of your work. That way, the reader can quickly verify whether you match the requirements of their show.

Most of the ‘bios’ we’ve shown thus far have been taken from the websites of artists. Different websites have different purposes. Just like Livia’s art business shop shown above.

The ‘About Me’ section is very clean and formal. Whereas Jon’s bio below, written for a personal site, is written in first-person POV — making it more engaging and personal.

Now that you’ve learned the basic rules for writing a good bio, it’s time to start working! Best if you could get it up on your site ASAP.

(BTW! If you haven’t started looking for website builders yet, you can check out the Wix website builder or read this article for other relevant recommendations.)

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Artist Bios 101: Here’s How To Write An Amazing Artist Profile

Wondering what makes an unforgettable artist bio? Follow our how-to guide to learning everything about writing an artist bio that will make people remember you! (160 characters)

Your artist bio is your chance to really grab the interest of potential clients and make them understand what it is about your art that’s different from the rest. It can be a powerful art marketing tool, so you want to make sure you take the time to craft an amazing artist profile that does your incredible artwork justice!

When building online portfolios, many artists (and even brands) overlook the importance of the about-me page . But, no matter what kind of art you make, visitors to your website are highly likely to click it within a little while of landing on your page. Think of your artist bio as your chance to craft the lens that they’ll view your work through.

Don’t have an artist portfolio website just yet? Your About the Artist page will live on your online portfolio, of course, so it’s a good idea to have one up and running before you start crafting that artist profile. Make sure to choose a website builder that lets you easily add custom pages, so that you can add an artist bio page and place it wherever you want in your website’s menu (Hint: you should put it somewhere that’s easy to find, so your visitors don’t have to look for it).

Choose an online portfolio with beautiful website templates that allow you to make easy, fast tweaks to your artist profile whenever you want—no code required! The best website builders will have lots of typography options built right in, so that you can really customize the look of that About the Artist page without having to mess around with importing fonts.

Okay, you have some ideas for how to build your artist bio into your portfolio website, but what makes a really strong artist profile in the first place? What should you include, and what is better left out? Where do you start?

Craft the Perfect Opening Sentence

A short artist bio is usually better than a lengthy one. Check out some short artist bio examples and some longer ones, and notice which tend to stick in your mind more. (Not sure where to find them? Check out the online portfolios of other artists you respect to find some good artist bio examples.) Attention spans are limited online, so if you want to get your point across and make sure your reader goes through your whole artist profile, it’s best to keep things concise. That means every sentence matters.

The opening sentence is important because that’s where the reader gets hooked. This sentence should be able to stand alone, communicating who you are and something unique about the kind of art you make. Check out some successful artist bio samples online; a tried-and-true method is to use the first sentence to state the artist’s name as well as their preferred medium or the style of their art.

Remember, your artist profile is also a chance to improve the SEO ranking of your portfolio website. Consider the kinds of keywords that people who might buy your art would search for. Are you an oil painter ? Then you should use that keyword early in your artist bio, since search engines will rank that higher than if you mention it at the very end of your artist bio.

The same goes for subject matter: if you usually photograph landscapes in a certain region, you should make sure that first sentence includes something like “Pacific Northwest landscape photographer,” which will let your reader know what it is that you do—but will also be SEO-friendly. If you’re confused about where to start with search engine optimization, no worries. Our guide will answer a ton of your questions and help you make your portfolio website super SEO-friendly.

Know Your Audience

Another thing you’ll see across the best artist profile samples is that they’re speaking to a well-defined audience. Think about who you hope will see your website, and who you’re hoping will take the next step and want to work with you or buy your art.

If you’re selling your work directly to consumers on your portfolio website, consider writing an artist bio that the average person who doesn’t have a background in art would be able to understand. You definitely don’t want to alienate people with too much art industry jargon in that artist profile! It’ll fly over their heads and, worst of all, it will make them feel less comfortable buying from you.

Look up some artist profile examples from artists in your field, and try to pick out some descriptive words that you like, that explain your art, and that are understandable to laypeople. A good test to make sure that you’re writing a clearly understandable artist bio is to have a non-artist friend read it over tell you if anything stands out as too technical. You also want to sound like yourself and convey a bit of personality, so try to maintain your own voice as you write.

An exception to this is if your target audience is actually a technical crowd, such as art gallery owners. If your main goal with your portfolio website is to get noticed by galleries , then you can get away with language that would be understood by people in your industry. There’s no one-size-fits-all “meet the artist” template; it’s super important to know your audience and write your artist bio with them in mind.

Describe Your Work

Now that you know what kind of language is appropriate for your artist profile, you can start describing the work that you do. Here you can describe a bit about the style that your artwork fits into, the kinds of techniques you use, and interesting tidbits about your process.

Your goal should be to give the reader the understanding that there’s something unique about you and your work (because there is!). Take a bit of time to really think about what defines and characterizes your art. Again, checking out other artist profile examples is a good way to get the creative juices flowing and come up with some effective vocabulary that you can use yourself.

You should also help the reader understand the message of your work, or what it is that you’re communicating through your chosen medium. This can be really helpful in giving people a framework to understand your art, and can make clicking through your online profile much more enjoyable.

Get Personal

You don’t have to share everything about yourself, but plenty of good artist website examples do share a little bit of personal information about the artist. This info should still serve the main purpose of helping readers understand what is different about your art and what you are trying to convey through it, but it’s always easier to connect to a piece with a little bit of personal information.

For example, if you spent some studying or practicing in a cool art city and that experience impacts your work today, that would be a cool piece of information to share in an artist profile. You definitely don’t need to share all of your hobbies and interests, but anything that helps contextualize your art and your purpose in making it will help people connect to your art in a deeper way.

Provide A Visual

If you look up visual artist bio samples you’ll probably see that many of them include a little visual along with the text. Having a visual reference of one of your pieces on the same page as your artist profile lets readers see your philosophy in practice without having to navigate away to a gallery on your website. Make sure to choose a piece that exemplifies the things you talked about in your bio!

Even the best artist bios need to be revised as you develop in your career. Try to review your About the Artist page regularly—every six months, at a minimum—to make sure that it’s up-to-date. Maybe you’ve snagged some art contest wins or written a stylish new case study for a recent design piece. That’s the kind of info you should definitely keep your artist profile updated with!

While you’re at it, it’s a good idea to update the actual content of your online portfolio as well. Keep your artist bio and the work in your portfolio as fresh as possible—that gives people good reason to keep checking back to stay on top of what you’re up to. (Need some more tips on curating your portfolio? Check out our guide to picking images for your website .)

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Marketing your art business and landing new clients isn’t always easy, but an awesome, informative artist bio can really help your portfolio stand out and make your name stick in people’s minds. Take the time to write a good one!

Looking for more writing tips for artists? How To Write Product Descriptions That Really Sell Write a Better Artist Grant Application in 15 Steps Here’s How to Write An Amazing Instagram Bio in 10 Minutes

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How to Write an Artist Bio – Background Information Writing Tips

Writing an artist biography (shortened as artist bio) is often associated with the less fun, administrative side of practicing art. However, writing an artist bio can be a stimulating exercise that leads to clarity and more opportunities. In this article, we will look at what an artist biography is, what to include in an artist bio, and some artist bio examples to ultimately understand how to write an artist bio. 

Table of Contents

• 1.1 What Is an Artist Biography?
• 1.2 What to Include in an Artist Bio
• 2.1 Example One: Short Artist Biography
• 2.2 Example Two: Extended Artist Biography
• 3.1 What Will Make You Stand Out?
• 3.2 Do a Brain Dump
• 3.3 Consider Clarity
• 3.4 Ask a Friend to Proofread Your Final Text
• 3.5 What Should I Avoid When Writing an Artist Bio?
• 4.1 What Is an Artist Bio?
• 4.2 What Should I Write in an Artist Bio?
• 4.3 Why Is an Artist Bio Important?

How to Write an Artist Bio

Making art is the most important part of being an artist, but often communicating what they do to the world is neglected by artists. Your practice and artworks might make sense to you, but you cannot assume everyone will understand them simply by looking at them. Generating support materials that essentially “translate” your artworks into clear text for viewers to read is just as important as making the art itself.

Support materials include your website, artist CV , artist biography, artist statement, business cards, and elevator speech.  

Many artists are not sure how to write an artist bio and therefore avoid doing so altogether. This can lead to a scramble just before a deadline, or the generation of an unclear and incomplete text. If you see writing your artist bio as an exercise in defining how you want to present yourself to the world, it can be a fun and enlightening exercise.

What Is an Artist Biography?

Artists often confuse an artist bio with an artist statement. An artist statement provides conceptual reasoning that explains the concepts, symbols, subjects, and methods of the work you create. It goes into a detailed rationale of why and how your work is created. An artist statement can be specific to a certain exhibition or body of work or be a general statement about your art practice.

An artist biography is a summary of the artist’s life and career. It gives a clear and brief account of what the artist has achieved in their career up to the present moment, the mediums, and communities they work in as well as any other experiences relevant to their body of work. In an artist bio, you can introduce the main themes of your work, but reserve the conceptual explanations for your artist statement.

Artist bios are often included in exhibitions, competitions, funding, collection texts, and so on. Individuals working in the film, music, literature, theater, poetry, and fine arts industries have to have an artist bio, as it is often required as part of submissions to qualify for opportunities to show your work. If you are marketing on social media, on your website, or doing self-organized exhibitions, it is also good to have a bio available for buyers and viewers to read about who you are and what you have done.

An artist bio can create a personal connection between you and the viewer of your work. It should be a punchy, compact text that is easy to read and straight to the point. That being said, the beginning or ending sentence of your bio can include some of your artist values to express the philosophy behind your art practice. Again, avoid expanding too much on these subjects and rather explore them further in your artist statements.

Your artist bio can also be tailored for specific use. For example, you might want the bio on your website to be more extensive and personal, whereas a bio submitted for a museum might focus on a specific era of your career relevant to the works on display.

What to Include in an Artist Bio

There are many ways to write an artist bio. A traditional approach would be a professional, academically styled, summarized CV, but this does not mean that it is the only “correct” way to write an artist bio. You can style your bio to reflect your artist personality and style of working.

It is a great idea to write a long and short version of your artist bio. Cap the short version at 250 to 300 words, as many submissions limit the word count. A more extensive bio is good to have at hand for publications, articles, and your website.

A professional artist bio that is submitted for open calls and publication is written in the third person. When writing your artist bio, you have to use your name and surname in the first sentence. From there, you can decide if you want to use your first name or last name to refer to yourself in the text (see the example bios below for reference). If you want your artist bio to be more personal on your website, you can write it in the first person.

Your bio should include where you were born, where and what you studied, where you are based or work from, what mediums you practice in as well as the general subject your artworks address. Including these elements in the introductory paragraph of your bio is a good way to give the reader a general understanding of your background and who you are as an artist.

Think of your bio as a longhand version of your CV. It should therefore include any exhibitions you were part of, competitions you won, residencies you attended, the funding you received, and any other relevant art achievements throughout your career. If you have been practicing for a long time or have been part of many shows and events, choose the most esteemed achievements to include in your artist bio.

Remember to include the associated institutions, galleries, and persons in each listed achievement. This adds professional credibility to your work. It also acts as a reference so that the panel or judges reading your bio can follow up with said institutions or galleries to find out how it was working with you.

What Is an Artist Bio Example?

Artists approach biographies in different ways. It is a good idea to read as many artist biographies as possible before deciding on what style you want to use. You can google famous artists’ bios or read the printed text at exhibitions you attend.

Example One: Short Artist Biography

In 2020, [Artist Name] created a series of ZOOM performances with Lumkile Mzayiya called Evoked? These performances led her to create exclusive performances from her home in 2021 to accommodate the mid-pandemic audience. She also started focusing more on the sustainability of creative practices in the last three years and now offers creative coaching sessions to artists of all kinds. By sharing what she has learned from a 10-year practice, [Artist Name] hopes to relay more directly the sense of vulnerability with which she makes art and the core belief of her practice: Art is an immensely important and powerful bridge of communication that can offer understanding, healing, and connection.

Example Two: Extended Artist Biography

As part of the Rhizome Artist Residency in 2018, [Artist Name] further explored the theme of public memory and identity. In collaboration with Korean artists, she improvised spontaneous engagements with the audience led to questions around race, voice, violence, and identity, which she continued to unpack after completing the 10-month residency.

TLC brought together a community of collaborating artists. The collective offered visual artists informal critique sessions, and emotional support and aimed to create a safe space for artists to develop together. In June and July 2019, [Artist Name] co-curated a series of immersive art events titled, Senses of the Seasons, with TLC partner Livia Schneider. These multi-sensory art happenings focused on satisfying the creative desires of young artists in the heart of Cape Town.

Painted Mantras , [Artist Name]’s first solo exhibition of paintings, showed at the University of Stellenbosch Gallery in October 2019. This exhibition formed a collection of visual mantras painted in oil on canvas.

In November 2019, [Artist Name] performed Take Flight as part of Infecting the City Live Art Festival in collaboration with Duduzile Mathebula, King Debs, Spirit Mba, and Kirsten Warries. A series of collaborative performance pieces that linked to her first public engagement during #FeesMustFall in 2016 as part of Open Forum Residency titled, Flight .

In 2020, [Artist Name] created a series of ZOOM performances with Lumkile Mzayiya called Evoked? These performances led her to create exclusive performances from her home in 2021 to accommodate the mid-pandemic audience. She also started focusing more on the sustainability of creative practices during Covid-19 by offering creative coaching sessions to artists of all kinds and she teaches painting every week from her home in Fish Hoek.

By creating complex sensory art experiences that involve the body of the viewer through taste, smell, sound, and often through the physical engagement with her artworks, [Artist Name] hopes to relay more directly the sense of vulnerability with which she makes art and the core belief to her practice: Art is an immensely important and powerful bridge of communication that can offer understanding, healing and connection.

What Exercises to Do When Writing an Artist Bio

Starting an artist bio can feel daunting, but the exercise of writing through everything you have done in your life, when you started making art, your training and why you make art can translate into more content for your website, social media, or marketing material. Here are a few exercises to start and refine your text:

What Will Make You Stand Out?

Ask yourself what will make you stand out. Your bio should be professional but should also grab the reader’s interest. Including an artist’s value, philosophy, or story about where your art practice started can help the reader connect to you.

Do a Brain Dump

A brain dump is a conscious stream of writing exercise where you leave the grammatical and editorial considerations for later. Start writing your whole story without worrying about sentence construction or if it makes sense. Write as much as possible and continue writing until you feel like you have written everything about your experience, achievements, and ways of practicing art. After you have written everything down, you can edit this rough draft into a neat and concise text.

Consider Clarity

It is important to keep your sentences short and only include the relevant achievements and training in your artist bio. Make sure these achievements are listed chronologically and that you have included who trained you or granted you the opportunity. Cut unnecessary facts about your life and keep the text specific to you as an artist. This is where writing a shortened version of your bio can be a good exercise, as you will have to consider the essence of what you want to communicate and get straight to the point.

Ask a Friend to Proofread Your Final Text

Ask a friend that knows you well and is good at writing to read your first draft. You can exchange a small artwork, take them for lunch or help them write their bio as well for this service they provide. Often getting an outside perspective can bring insight into what you might have to add but did not.

What Should I Avoid When Writing an Artist Bio?

Conceptual thinking and physically making something mostly come easier to artists than the administrative side of practicing art. This makes framing yourself and communicating what you do to the world hard as artmaking is often informed by the abstract and metaphorical part of the brain. Make sure your bio makes sense and is professional. Avoid using abstract and metaphorical language, as this kind of writing is reserved for conceptual reasonings or exhibition texts.

Make sure you do not get hung up on being too formal or trying to sound smart. It is important that your bio is authentic, factual, and reflects who you are as an artist. You do not have to impress readers with art history or lengthy words.

Most people just expect to read about who you are and what you have done in your artist bio. Do not include opportunities you applied for but did not get.  

Choose a font and style that is easy to read and professional. A bio is not where you assert your brand identity but rather a professional text that should be easily navigated. You can always design exhibition flyers to reflect your personal brand, but make sure your general bio adheres to an acceptable style for any opportunity.

Artists often write one bio at the beginning of their career and then forget to update it. Your bio should be updated at least every six months. If you are selected for a big opportunity, immediately add it to your bio so you do not forget in the future or submit an outdated text for new opportunities.

Writing an artist bio is a necessary step in creating a professional art practice. It should be a considered and clear text that reflects all the wonderful things you have done up until the present moment in your career. The administrative side and how well you manage it is often what makes or breaks an artist, so be sure to invest focused time and research in writing your artist bio.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an artist bio.

Your bio should be a shortened, written-out version of your resumé. It is part of the support materials for an artist’s work, just like your website, business cards, and exhibition statements. It is a piece of text that accompanies an artist’s work so the viewer can understand who made the work and what they have achieved in their career.

What Should I Write in an Artist Bio?

There is often confusion as to what to include in an artist bio, but there are a few essential elements. You should start with your name, where you are from, and the mediums you work with. Include your training, exhibitions, and any other art achievements you have attained in your career thus far. Prioritize the achievements associated with the most esteemed establishments and take out any exhibitions or events that have become irrelevant to your practice when you update your bio every six months.

Why Is an Artist Bio Important?

Without an artist bio, the viewers of your work will not know who you are, why you practice, or what you have achieved. You cannot assume that everyone will read your resume. This is where a short artist bio is helpful, as it is supposed to be an engaging text that shares all of your most important achievements with those interested in your work.

Nicolene Burger is a South African multi-media artist, working primarily in oil paint and performance art. She received her BA (Visual Arts) from Stellenbosch University in 2017. In 2018, Burger showed in Masan, South Korea as part of the Rhizome Artist Residency. She was selected to take part in the 2019 ICA Live Art Workshop, receiving training from art experts all around the world. In 2019 Burger opened her first solo exhibition of paintings titled, Painted Mantras, at GUS Gallery and facilitated a group collaboration project titled, Take Flight, selected to be part of Infecting the City Live Art Festival. At the moment, Nicolene is completing a practice-based master’s degree in Theatre and Performance at the University of Cape Town.

In 2020, Nicolene created a series of ZOOM performances with Lumkile Mzayiya called, Evoked?. These performances led her to create exclusive performances from her home in 2021 to accommodate the mid-pandemic audience. She also started focusing more on the sustainability of creative practices in the last 3 years and now offers creative coaching sessions to artists of all kinds. By sharing what she has learned from a 10-year practice, Burger hopes to relay more directly the sense of vulnerability with which she makes art and the core belief to her practice: Art is an immensely important and powerful bridge of communication that can offer understanding, healing and connection.

Nicolene writes our blog posts on art history with an emphasis on renowned artists and contemporary art. She also writes in the field of art industry. Her extensive artistic background and her studies in Fine and Studio Arts contribute to her expertise in the field.

Learn more about Nicolene Burger and the Art in Context Team .

Cite this Article

Nicolene, Burger, “How to Write an Artist Bio – Background Information Writing Tips.” Art in Context. September 4, 2022. URL: https://artincontext.org/how-to-write-an-artist-bio/

Burger, N. (2022, 4 September). How to Write an Artist Bio – Background Information Writing Tips. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/how-to-write-an-artist-bio/

Burger, Nicolene. “How to Write an Artist Bio – Background Information Writing Tips.” Art in Context , September 4, 2022. https://artincontext.org/how-to-write-an-artist-bio/ .

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How to Write an Appealing Artist Biography

Paige Simianer | October 16, 2015 (Updated September 1, 2022)

Your artist biography is a paragraph of many talents.

It weaves the story of your art career - instilling trust as it goes - allowing you to share your credentials and achievements without speaking a word. The importance and utility of this emissary cannot be stressed enough.

Armed with this knowledge, all that’s left is to write and perfect your artist biography. Easy, right? Unfortunately, staring at a blank page trying to condense your art career into a paragraph or two is anything but. That’s why we’ve put together the five steps to writing an appealing artist biography, from start to strong finish, to get your creative juices flowing.

“The Artist’s Biography serves to provide the reader with a story about you as an artist and learn about your career credentials.” - Renee Phillips

Step 1: Understand Your Audience

Before you dive into the nitty-gritty of writing your artist biography, make sure you have a firm understanding of your audience. Will they be more interested in your past exhibitions and awards or excited about an upcoming residency or project? Sometimes it can be beneficial to adjust your biography for different readers and objectives.

For instance, if a biography is going to a gallery that frequently holds exhibitions, you’ll want to focus more heavily on your exhibition history and less on a residency.

Step 2: Choose the Right Information

Your artist biography should be a summary of significant facts about your art career written in third person. Begin by introducing yourself with your name, medium, and some background information. This can include where you were born, where you work, and when you first became interested in art. Next, discuss any art training or schooling you had and degrees earned. If none, state you’re self-taught.

Then move on to discuss your exhibitions, awards, and any other professional achievements. You can also mention if you’re featured in any important collections or prominent art publications. But, be sure not to overwhelm the reader with too much self-promotion - choose the best nuggets.

Then segue into any recent shows or important projects you’re working on such as a public art installation. End strong with any upcoming exhibitions, residencies, or projects.

Step 3: Write Multiple Drafts

Lucky are the writers who can craft masterpieces without ever moving past the first draft. If you’re not one of these gifted few (if you are, spread your wisdom), we recommend writing two to three drafts. You can try different tones and play around with language in each one. And don’t be afraid to inject a bit of personality into your biography.

While some of the components seem a bit dry, the tone and voice behind them can be anything but. You can weave in a few of your art-related interests and passions among the facts. Just remember to make sure it resonates with your audience. And save the full discussion of your purpose and the inspiration behind your art for your artist statement .

Step 4: Edit and Edit Some More

Make sure you keep your artist biography short and concise with a focused structure. It’s very easy to wax lyrical about your career and lose your readers in the process. Simple and readable will always trump jargon and flowery language when it comes to your biography. Each short paragraph - two to three max - should be succinct and flow easily into the next.

We suggest taking your drafts to a friend with an excellent grasp of grammar and blessed with writing brilliance. Your friend can help you pull the best parts together into one outstanding piece of writing. And check for spelling, grammar, word choice, and sentence structure errors.

Step 5: Show It to Another Artist

Have an artist you trust and admire read your final draft. A fresh set of practiced eyes can do wonders for your biography and help you polish it to perfection. Another reader with a trained eye will be able to tell you if your biography correctly reflects you and your art.

Bonus Step: Continue to Enhance Your Biography as You Evolve

When you write your artist biography you want it to be the best expression of your career, but don’t forget that your career is continually developing. Make sure your artist biography progresses with you. Add in and switch out professional achievements as your success and knowledge grows. You might even need to rewrite it one or more times. This means you are evolving and maturing as an artist.

Need Inspiration and a Sample? Renee Phillips has graciously included a sample artist biography on her blog. You can find it here .

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Sign up for artwork archive (for free)  here..

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Writing An Artist Bio: The Ultimate Guide for Fine Artists

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As a visual artist, you may not consider yourself a writer, and that’s OK.

But your Artist Bio is an important piece of writing you do need to nail down.

You will need it for exhibition or gallery applications, artist websites, press releases, publicity materials, etc…

The good news is once you have it done and dusted, you won’t need to do it again!

At most, you will simply refine it over the years.

So read along, and let’s get your Bio done right…

Artist Statement and Artist Bio: What’s the difference?

The two powerful tools you can use to communicate the meaning and intentions behind your art to your audience are your artist statement and artist bio.

Your artist statement is a great way to share your creative process, inspiration, and philosophy with your audience. It’s like a manifesto for your art, where you can dive deep into what drives you to create and what you hope to achieve through your work.

On the other hand, your artist bio is like a snapshot of your artistic journey so far. It’s a potted history of your life as an artist, highlighting your achievements, experiences, and background. Your artist bio serves as an introduction to your work, and it helps your audience understand your perspective as an artist.

In other words, while your artist statement focuses on your art and medium, your artist bio is all about YOU as an artist.

When you introduce your art in your artist statement, it’s like saying, “Hey folks, check out my art!” But when it comes to your bio, you’re basically saying:

🙋‍♂️ “Hey folks, here’s a little bit about me!”

Important Considerations Before Crafting Your Artist Bio

We get it – talking about yourself can feel awkward, but the details about your passion, inspiration, and dreams are just as crucial as your artwork. People are naturally curious creatures, so it’s no surprise that viewers and readers want to know a bit about you. After all, your art is a reflection of who you are as a person and an artist.

There are a few things you might want to consider before you get started with your artist bio. Let’s go through them together!

✅  It’s OK to show a glimpse of your personality.

Starting off your artist bio with a hook is crucial to grabbing your readers’ attention.

A little bit of humor can go a long way in reeling them in and warming them up to both you and your art. So why not give it a shot and inject some personality into your bio?

✅  Your artist bio should not be too corporate—it’s not a CV or a resume.

When it comes to crafting your artist bio, it can be tempting to list out every single accomplishment and accolade you’ve received throughout your career.

But most of the time, less is often more.

Instead of overwhelming your readers with a laundry list of accomplishments, it’s important to be selective and choose only the most noteworthy and relevant highlights of your career. This will not only make your bio more concise and easier to read, but it will also give your readers a better sense of who you are as an artist.

Crafting Your Artist Bio: Tips and Tricks for Fine Artists

Okay, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and get started on writing that artist bio.

To help you out, we’ve gathered some handy tips and tricks that will make the process easier and more effective.

✅  Write in the third person (e.g., he, she, his, hers, they)

Have you ever considered what someone else might write about you if given the task of crafting your bio?

It may seem like a strange exercise, but putting yourself in someone else’s shoes and imagining what they might say about you can be an incredibly helpful tool in crafting your own bio.

This exercise can help you identify the most important aspects of your career and artistry from an outsider’s perspective, as well as highlight any strengths or unique qualities that may not have been immediately apparent to you.

So, what might someone else write about you? Perhaps they would focus on your bold use of color or your ability to create intricate and detailed works of art.

Maybe they would highlight your commitment to environmentalism and the use of sustainable materials in your artwork. Or perhaps they would focus on your professional accomplishments and exhibitions.

Regardless of what they might say, the exercise of imagining someone else’s perspective can help you gain clarity and insight into your own career and artistic identity.

Use these insights to inform your own bio and make it truly stand out to potential clients and fans.

✅  Keep it concise and straight to the point.

As a fine artist, you want your artist bio to leave a lasting impression on your readers – but you don’t want to bore them with a lengthy essay. That’s why it’s important to use simple and direct sentences that will keep your readers engaged and interested in what you have to say.

By using concise language and avoiding complex sentence structures, you can make your bio easy to read and understand. This will not only help to hold your reader’s attention, but it will also give them a better understanding of who you are as an artist and what you have to offer.

So, the next time you sit down to write your artist bio, remember to keep it simple and direct. Your readers will thank you for it. 😉

✅  Be creative.

Your creativity is your greatest asset – and that should extend to your artist bio as well. While it can be tempting to stick to a standard format or template, your bio is an opportunity to showcase your unique personality and artistic style.

So, don’t be afraid to get creative with your bio!

Your bio can be a combination of

➡️ where you came from

➡️ where you went to school

➡️ your inspirations

➡️ your artistic process and philosophy

➡️ your interests

➡️ and your accomplishments as a human being.

All of these add more dimension to your narrative. You can tackle different angles, but make sure that the subject is always your artistic development.

But let’s be real, how can you make your bio stand out and tell a compelling story?

One way is to use timelines and narrative progression to organize your thoughts and show your artistic journey in a clear and coherent manner. Break down your career highlights into different time periods, so readers can see how your work has evolved over time and how you have grown as an artist.

To get started, make sure your timelines are easy to follow. Use bullet points or subheadings to separate different phases of your career and highlight your key achievements and milestones from each era.

And don’t forget about the importance of narrative progression – by framing your career journey as a progression from past to present , you can help readers understand how each phase of your career has influenced the next.

With these tips in mind, you can create a killer artist bio that showcases your artistic development and highlights the unique qualities that make you a standout in your field.

Should Previous Non-Art Related Degrees and Jobs Be Included in an Artist Bio?

The answer is simple – yes, you may include them! Your bio is the perfect place to share your unique journey as an artist.

The trick to including non-art-related experiences in your bio is to connect them with your current artistic career . How did those experiences shape your perspective and inspire your work? For instance, if you worked in the field of child welfare, how did that experience influence your artistic vision?

Including non-art-related experiences can make you a more interesting artist and give viewers a deeper understanding of who you are as a person. It’s not just about your art degree but about the experiences that make you who you are today.

When writing your bio, don’t keep your previous jobs and degrees separate from your artistic career. Integrate them into your story and tell your audience how they have impacted your artistic process.

What’s the Perfect Length for Your Artist Bio?

If you have been wondering how long your biography should be, we’ve got you covered!

Here are some pointers to help you decide on the length of your artist bio:

✅ Your biography can be as short as a few paragraphs or as long as two to three or four pages. It really depends on how much information you want to include.

✅ If you want to keep it short and sweet, a brief summary or biographical statement at the back of your portfolio or on your website is perfectly fine. This gives a quick overview of your background and accomplishments.

✅ If you want to provide more detail, an extensive biography can be very helpful and effective in making sales. This can be from three to seven pages long, written in the third person, and laid out in a magazine-style format. This type of bio is ideal for artists who want to give collectors a more in-depth look at their life and career.

✅ Your biography is a document that can evolve over time and can grow or shrink in length. Keep it up to date with your latest achievements.

✅ Sharing your background, life, and career development can help establish additional credibility for you as an artist. Potential buyers find it fascinating, and it creates a deeper connection with them.

✅ You can combine your short bio with elements of your artist statement to weave together your work and life. This can make your bio a little lengthier, but it gives readers a more holistic view of your artistic vision and process.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how long your artist bio should be. Consider your goals and the level of detail you want to share, and use that as a guide when crafting your biography.

Oops! Don’t Make These Mistakes When Writing Your Artist Bio

Did you make these mistakes when writing your artist bio? Don’t worry—it’s not too late to fix them! Let’s take a look at some of the most common pitfalls to avoid when crafting your artist bio.

✅  Poor Writing

When it comes to your artist bio, it’s crucial to make sure it’s well-written and polished. You don’t want any errors or awkward sentences to distract your audience from your amazing work.

So, take the time to proofread it multiple times and make sure it’s free of any mistakes. Even small writing errors can give off an unprofessional impression to your readers.

✅  Sharing too much information

While it can be tempting to include every detail of your life, it’s best to stick to information that is relevant to your artistic identity. Avoid sharing too much information about your personal life or unrelated accomplishments and instead focus on highlighting your artistic achievements and aspirations.

✅  Lack of personality

Let your artist bio be a reflection of your one-of-a-kind personality and style. Avoid using generic terms and concepts that make you sound like a robot. Instead, infuse your bio with your unique voice and perspective on life to make it stand out.

Ready to share your Artist Bio with the world? Here are a few things you should do first

So, you’ve written your artist bio, and you’re eager to share it with the world. But before you hit that publish button, there are a few crucial steps you should take to make sure your bio is polished and ready to impress.

✅  Read, reread, and proofread

Have you read your artist bio out loud yet? This is a crucial step in making sure that your bio sounds both natural and professional while still being approachable to your audience.

Now, chances are, your first draft is going to need a lot of trimming down. That’s why it’s important to reread it multiple times and make changes to any areas that need improvement.

And don’t forget to ask a friend to proofread it for you as well. They can give you valuable feedback on how to make it look and sound even better. Trust us, it’s always helpful to have a fresh set of eyes review your work!

✅  Have a fellow artist review your artist bio—hear that second opinion 😉

It’s always a good idea to have someone else take a look at your artist bio before sharing it with the world. And who better to turn to than a fellow artist? They can give you honest and objective feedback that can help you refine your message and make sure that your bio truly reflects your identity as an artist and your body of work.

So, if you have an artist friend who’s willing to take a look, don’t hesitate to send them a copy of your bio and ask for their thoughts. Ask them what they loved about it and what could be improved. Their insights could help clarify your message and make your bio even more effective.

How Often Should You Update Your Artist Bio?

Well, the answer is pretty straightforward – as often as you need to!

Your artist bio is an important tool for introducing yourself to potential buyers, galleries, and employers, so it should be kept up to date as your career progresses.

Revisiting your biography every year is a great way to ensure it still accurately represents your current work and achievements. As you continue to create new pieces and gain recognition, you’ll want to make sure your biography is showcasing your latest and greatest.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of using an outdated biography. You may have created a biography early on in your career, and it may not be relevant anymore. That’s okay! Take some time to review and update it, and make sure it reflects your current work and accomplishments.

Your artist bio is a BIG deal.

And the good news is that once you have it ready, you feel a BIG relief.

It’s what can set you apart from the rest and help you connect with your audience. So, when you sit down to write it, take your time and put in the effort to craft something that really reflects who you are as an artist.

Your bio can add that extra layer of interest and intrigue to your art, so make it count!

Want one on one help with your bio? If you would like to have word-by-word artist bio templates, your own bio revised and edited by a professional art writer, then consider applying to our flagship program – the  Professional Artist Accelerator .

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How to Write an Artist Biography and Statement

As artists, it’s a good idea to have an Artist Biography and Statement ready for anything including exhibitions, competition submissions or applications for funding. Here is a guide to help you identify the important information to share about you and your art practice.

Artist Biography

What is an artist biography.

A concise description of the artist, written in the third person eg. “He”, “She”, “They”.

What is an Artist Biography for?

An Artist Biography presents facts about your development as an artist. It presents a context for your work. A selection panel will be often interested in where or how you learned your skills as it can lend a degree of understanding of why you make what you make.

What should I write in my Artist Biography?

Where are you from? Where are you currently based? If you studied, where did you study? Or maybe you are self taught? What is your main artistic inspiration? What mediums do you work with? Does your work belong in any collections? Do you belong to any art collectives, societies or organisations?

Example: Claude Monet is a painter living and working in Paris, France. His impressionistic style is concerned with capturing light and organic forms in the natural world. Monet studied oil painting and drawing at the Academie Suisse where developed his landscape works to render the beauty of the world around us. A visionary artist, Monet pushes the boundaries of classical painting techniques and his paintings have been exhibited worldwide, most notably in the Paris Salon de 1874. His works are housed in the most prestigious, public and private collections in the world.

A corner of the studio , 1861 Claude Monet Oil on canvas

Artist Statement

What is an artist statement.

A focussed description of the artists work and practice, written in the first person eg. “I”, “My”, “Our”.

What is an Artist Statement for?

An Artist Statement communicates the main concerns within your practice. You might consider it a shortcut to understanding what your artwork is about – so that a selection panel, who sometimes have limited time – can get an idea of your work in as short a time as possible.

What should I write in my Artist Statement?

Think about…

How? How do you make your work? Describe how your work is made. What kind of approach do you take to your mark making, colour palette and materials?

What? What are the main the subjects or ideas in your works? Look at the physical aspects of your work and describe them to us.

Why? Why do you do what you do? Is there a relationship between your imagery and the mediums you work with? What is the main idea behind your work?

Rather than simply stating how, what and why, try writing a few drafts to blend these ideas into a cohesive Artist Statement and make sure you are referring to the specific works you are entering into the competition.

Example: “For me, a landscape does not exist in its own right, since its appearance changes at every moment, but the surrounding atmosphere brings it to life.. the air and the light which vary continually. For me, it is only the surrounding atmosphere which gives subjects their true value. Using bright oil colour, I like to paint as a bird sings, covering the canvas with dabs, dashes and squiggles of paint and recording the passing of time through changes in light.”

We hope this helps you write your Artist Biography and Artist Statement and perhaps in doing so, also helps to bring your practice into focus.

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Clare McNamara

As Blog Editor, Clare oversees content for the blog, manages the publishing schedule and contributes regularly with features, reviews and interviews. With a background in fine arts, her practices are illustration, graphic design, video and music.

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Thank you for the great advice.

Hello Irene,   You’re welcome! Thank you for letting us know.   Kind regards,   Clare

Very helpful, thanks 🙂

You’re welcome. Thank you for letting us know.

Thank you for sharing this.

You’re very welcome.

I need to modify my biography to make it third person. Can I do that

Hi Kathleen,   You can alter your entry forms right up until the submission deadline. If you have any questions, please email [email protected]   Kind regards,   Clare

Great advice, thank you!

Thank you Clare. Just so I’m clear is it 180 – 200 words for the statement and another 180 – 200 words for biog?

Hi James,   Thanks for your question. The entry forms allows a maximum of 180 words for the Artist Biography and maximum of 200 words for the Artwork Statement.   Best, Clare

Thank you for this ♥️ it is very helpful

Thank you for this invaluable help

You’re very welcome

Can’t thank you enough for this information. I’ve been researching this on the internet but was just left confused. This is so clearly written, am now much more confident to start writing.

I’m so glad it was helpful for you Diannah, thanks for letting us know.

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ARTIST BIOS: EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

As an artist, one the most important tools you have to market yourself and your brand is your artist bio. This single paragraph describes who you are and what your vision is all about, and it’s basically your first introduction to potential clients. We know that many artists struggle with trying to come up with something catchy and compelling that accurately describes who they are and what they do, so we put together this handy guide on how to write an awesome artist’s bio.

HOW TO WRITE THE PERFECT ARTIST BIO

What are artist bios and why are they important.

  An artist’s biography is basically a brief paragraph that explains who you are as an artist, why you do what you do, and what you create. Artist’s bios are almost always written in the third person and are usually around 150 words. Your bio can be placed on your website, in your portfolio or submitted with your work for an exhibition or show.

Many people confuse the artist’s bio with an artist’s statement or even a CV, but they’re actually quite different. While an artist’s statement provides information about your artwork like a particular collection of works or a particular piece, and a CV lists your experience and accomplishments, your artist’s bio should be all about you, your practice and your philosophy.

Artist bios are important because they provide potential clients or fans with an introduction to you as an artist so that they can better understand you and your work. Your artist biography can also be great for SEO, as the keywords in your bio will help search engines connect you to people who are looking for artists who do the type of work you do.

WHAT SHOULD I INCLUDE IN MY ARTIST BIO?

  At the very least your artist’s bio should include:

– Your name – The medium and techniques you use – Key themes in your artwork – Your philosophy

Other information you may or may not want to include could be your influences, previous experiences like education, exhibitions or awards received and current projects or collaborations. Remember though, your bio should be roughly 150 words, so you need to keep it brief and only include the most relevant information.

SOME THINGS TO THINK ABOUT BEFORE WRITING YOUR ARTIST’S BIO

  Before sitting down and writing your artist’s bio, think about what makes your work special. Do you use a unique medium or technique? Does your work speak to a particular segment of society or provide value to a certain group of people? What do you want to achieve with your work and what do you hope people take away from it?

We know that it can be difficult to try and write about yourself, especially when you’re trying to big yourself up and make a good impression on potential clients. We recently watched a great TED Talk by Simon Sinek about why great leaders inspire action, and he suggested that when talking about yourself, you should always talk about the ‘why’ first.

Sinek says that most people talk about what they do and how they do it, but that doesn’t really inspire or motivate people to buy a product or become loyal to that person or brand. However, he said that when people talk about why they do what they do, it resonates with other people on a deeper more heartfelt level. So before writing your artist bio, think about why you create what you do and use that as a starting point.

TIPS ON WRITING ARTIST’S BIOS

  Keep your bio simple, straightforward and to the point. After all, the goal is to help the reader better understand you and your vision, so you don’t want to confuse them with flowery language or jargon or lose their interest by rambling off on a tangent.

* Try not to use superlative language (i.e. ‘the best’ or ‘the most amazing’) or exaggerated claims. Yes, you want to make yourself sound good, but don’t overdo it. After all, people have a tendency of seeing right through the overblown hype.

* Try to make your bio flow nicely. Remember, this is not like a CV where you simply list your accomplishments. Your bio should be engaging for the reader and inspire them to find out more about you and your work.

* Proofread your bio for spelling mistakes and grammatical errors. You may also want to get someone else to read it over for you so they can catch anything you might have missed and offer suggestions for improvement.

Still stuck for ideas? Do an Internet search for other artist’s bios and make notes of what you like and dislike about them. While we definitely don’t suggest copying another artist’s bio word for word, you can get some great ideas of what works from looking at other people’s examples.

The Gallery’s Guide to Writing Good Artist Bios

Including artist bios on your gallery’s website is an excellent way to engage readers and collectors, and to help you frame your gallery’s artistic focus and position the artists you represent. A good artist bio will inspire collectors to want to find out more about the artists and their work and lead them to keep browsing the artist’s works on your website. See the artist bios as your artists’ business cards – you want them to stand out, to provide all the essential information, and to convince collectors to become interested and, eventually, to reach out and buy works. Read on to discover how to write a stellar artist bio thanks to our 10 tips.

1. Create a concise summary

An artist bio should concisely summarise the artist’s practice. It’s not about covering an artist’s entire CV or full biography. Focus on a few main points that you believe to best introduce the artist and their art. Always include the medium, themes, techniques, and influences the artist works with.

2. Use clean, simple language

Use clean, simple language and avoid academic jargon and exaggerated language. Readers respond to authentic, simple texts and will take you much more seriously than if you use over-embellished language.

3. Grab the attention with a creative first sentence

Try to start the bio with a first line that is not simply a standard biographical introduction. Instead, be more creative and write a first sentence that grabs your readers’ attention while also telling them what is the most important thing about this artist and their work.

4. Include the artist's date of birth and nationality

Always add the date of birth (and in the case of artists who have passed away, the date of death) and the nationality of the artist. Also mention where they are mainly based – readers are interested in knowing where an artist is living and working, as this adds to a certain understanding about the artist’s influences and way of working.

5. Keep the bio around 120 words

The bio should be between 80 and 140 words. An ideal artist bio is 120 words. Research at museums has shown that visitors lose interest in reading wall labels accompanying art works after 150 words. That’s why it’s better to limit your word count to around 120 words – your readers will get enough information and be curious to learn more on their own, without getting bored and leaving your page because they don’t want to read an unnecessarily long text.

6. Discuss medium, techniques and style

Include all the important tangible aspects of the artist’s practice including: the medium and techniques the artist uses and the artistic style. Give examples of the artist’s key works that clearly elucidate these qualities.

7. Describe the main themes

Describe the main themes which the artist depicts in the work. What are the subjects and issues that inspire the themes in the artist’s pieces?

8. Position the artist in art history

Briefly reflect on the artist’s position in art history. What makes this artist important, what impact does he or she have on the history of art, which artists have influenced this artist and in what way has the artist redefined a certain medium or artistic technique?

9. Place the artist in his/her specific context

Position the artist in his or her cultural, political, social or technological context. Consider which events and which influences from the artist’s background and everyday life influence the way they work, and the art they produce.

10. Add a relevant quote

If you can find a short, relevant quote from the artist which supports the above-mentioned points, it can be a nice touch to add this to the bio in order to make it stand out more as an engaging, original piece.

Follow our ‘Gallery’s Guide’ series for more useful tips and strategies to improve your gallery’s online presence and business.

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RENEE PHILLIPS - MENTOR FOR ARTISTS

Helping Artists Achieve Their Fullest Potential

How to Write Your Artist’s Biography

By Renee Phillips 14 Comments

In “How to Write Your Artist’s Biography” I explain what it is, why you need it, and what to include, plus links to samples and quick tips.

Your Artist’s Biography is essential for viewers of your art who want to know more about you. It helps them to understand what makes you unique and tells them about the journey you took to get to where you are now as an artist.

On the practical side, your Artist’s Biography provides prospective buyers, gallery owners, curators, grant givers and writers knowledge about you. They want to know about your career accomplishments before they decide to invest in your art and promote you.

What Is The Artist’s Biography?

The Artist’s Biography is text, written in the third person (she, he) .

It serves to provide the reader with a story about you as an artist and learn about your career credentials.

It contains much of the same information as a résumé, however, a résumé or CV is written in a listing format and a biography is written in an editorial style.

Your Artist’s Biography may contain a brief description of your art work however it is also not the same as an Artist’s Statement , which your write entirely to express creative inspiration, materials, style and artistic vision.

On your website limit your Artist’s Biography to approximately 250 words or less.

Create different versions of your Artist’s Biography to use for different purposes.

First, before you go further, if you don’t have many credits on your resume read this: “How to Expand Your Short Artist’s Biography – 12 Great Ideas”

Why You Need to write Your Artist’s Biography

You need a well-written artist’s biography to…

Promote your art on your website and blog on the “About the Artist” page.

Create your profile on your social media platforms.

Provide material in your cover letter to a gallery or other art official.

Give to a publicity outlet — art editor, feature story editor or radio or TV host.

Add to your exhibition press release.

Serve as an integral part of a brochure or catalogue.

Add to your proposal for a grant, lecture, workshop or panel discussion.

What To Include in Your Biography

What are the unique attributes of your art?

Where have you previously lived and where do you currently live?

When, where, and/or why did you begin to take interest in art?

Did you study art in school, or were you self-taught?

Did you go to college or art school? Where? What did you study?

Did you receive any press coverage?

What is the title of the magazine/newspaper or blog and the writer’s name?

Have you been interviewed on TV or radio?

What is the title of the show and person who interviewed you?

What exhibitions did you participate in?

What is the name of the exhibition location and title of exhibition?

Was it a juried or invitational exhibition? What is the name of the juror?

Is your art in any important public collections? Which ones?

What awards and honors have you earned?

Have you served in other art art related capacities,  such as: Serving on the Board of Directors or committee of an arts organization?

Have you curated any exhibitions?

Have you written articles about art that have been published?

Have any books about you and your art been published?

Do you create other art-related items in addition to original works of art?

Read some samples of the Artist’s Biography.

Avoid these mistakes i’ve seen on artists’ websites.

Avoid writing about intimate, personal experiences that are not related to your career or artistic vision.

Avoid the use of jargon, colloquialism, and esoteric language that will alienate most potential buyers.

Avoid writing long biographies about your trials and tribulations beginning with childhood, grade school art work…

Avoid grandiose over-inflated jargon about yourself.

Avoid writing excessive quotes and references to famous artists.

Remember, if someone is interested in buying your art or showing your art in their gallery they are more interested in your current career credentials, not what you did as a child.

Read “10 Mistakes to Avoid When Writing Your Artist’s Biography”

Also Read “How to Expand Your Short Artist’s Biography – 12 Great Ideas”

Do You Want Me to Write Your Artist’s Biography? Go to this page to find out how I can help you.

About Renee Phillips

Renée Phillips is a mentor and advocate for artists helping them achieve their fullest potential. She provides career advice, writing services, and promotion for artists from beginners to advanced. She organizes online exhibitions open to all artists as Director/Curator of Manhattan Arts International www.ManhattanArts.com and Founder of The Healing Power of ART & ARTISTS www.healing-power-of-art.org. As an arts' advocate she has served on the advisory boards of several non-profit arts organizations. She lives in New York, NY.

12/23 at 11:09 am

Thank you for sharing your invaluable insight into writing biographies etc.

I am in the process of entering a competition in the UK and I will certainly use your advice to help create my biography.

Accuracy of written content is clearly important to us both and I thought I would like to mention a typo you have made in your ‘Why do you need to write Your Artist’s Biography?’ section, where you have stated, ‘Add to your your exhibition press release.’ (the word ‘your’ repeated ).

I hope you won’t find offence in bringing this to your attention but obviously you want to keep an accurate page without errors.

Kind regards. Bill

12/24 at 11:42 am

Thank you Bill for reading my article and calling my attention to the typo in it. I have fired my assistant editor/proofreader for failing to catch it. Only joking. I greatly appreciate it. 🙂

11/03 at 11:18 am

Thank you so much for your most informative article full of guidance. I am currently assisting a homeless Indigenous artist to get off the streets and launch his art career.

12/24 at 12:14 am

I am a Volunteer with 30 Students approximately 25 active art students. Thay range in age from 4 to 75 with a love for art. I need help with helping them .write their bio and artist statements..Need direction on how to help and how to get help to support my group..I find it hard to get people to share information that will help you grow and thrive in thie art world. I have learned that I have a lot to learn a long road ahead I’m a 62 year old retired .,.nurse.I’ve been an artist for 12 years .

12/24 at 9:34 am

Dear Shirley, Thank you for the work you do helping art students. It must be also very gratifying for you. I love offering advice to artists. Please share this article with your group and suggest that they subscribe to my blog email newsletter to see new articles when they are published. I also suggest you read and share How to Write Your Artist’s Statement. Don’t get discouraged. It can be overwhelming to navigate the business of being an artist. Here’s a good article to read: Take Small Steps to Achieve Large Art Career Goals.t a time . As far as funding for your group, I don’t know where you live, but there are nonprofit organizations that serve as an “umbrella” for groups like yours. Keep going and best wishes to you and your students!

11/13 at 9:35 am

This site is so super amazing and super helpful! I was so happy to have my artist statement! Best Regards, Patrick !

03/20 at 1:13 am

This article was helpful for me but I want to know how I can write organizational biography? Do you have any idea about that, if you have, please share it with me?

Regards, Sumera

03/20 at 9:13 am

Hi Sumera, I’m glad you found the article helpful to you. What do you mean by an “organizational biography”? My guess is you may be referring to a biography of an organization, which would include such information as its mission statement and objectives, often with such categories as “Who We Are”, “What We Do”, “Benefits to Sponsors”, “Benefits to Members”, etc. If so, there are articles about art organizations on The Artrepreneur Coach website. Use this link to find examples of art organizations with good examples of their missions and objectives on their websites https://renee-phillips.com/?s=art+organizations I hope this information helps you.

05/21 at 6:33 pm

Thank you for the guideline. I found this very helpful and concise.

05/16 at 5:31 am

Hello Renee Thanks for this information. It is helpful to me and many more who need such insights.

07/09 at 5:45 pm

I have an artist who I think would really connect with you and benefit from your services. How do I get him connected?

Best Stephanie

07/10 at 6:56 pm

Hi Stephanie, Thank you for your interest in my services. Please direct the artist you know to this page: https://renee-phillips.com/career-coaching-for-artists/ . Information about my consulting and writing services, fees, testimonials and how to contact are all there or a click away. All the best, Renee

09/05 at 6:28 am

Thank you very much for this service , I am having my first show of my life , and am grateful that this help and the awesome advice , i feel blessed to share my work in some capacity to the rest of the World , Aloha

09/03 at 3:29 pm

I did not realize how important a good biography of myself needs to be. I thank you for your helpful tips. Can hardly wait for a more profitable future.

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Writing Services for Artists

My specialty is writing Art Reviews and Art Statements / "Praise Quotes" for artists to use for promotion... on their websites, social media profiles, exhibition catalogues, grant submissions, blog posts, press releases, artists’ books and more. My writing for artists has led to increasing their art sales, attracting publicity, gaining … More...

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Writing an artist’s biography

An artist biography (or ‘artists biog’) is a paragraph or two about you and your career as a practitioner. it may also contain a line about the key themes to your practice..

Biographies are often confused with other tools used for self-promotion. A biography differs from an artist’s CV in being only written in prose. An artist statement talks about the work and the thinking behind it. A biography talks about the person themselves.

What to include in your artists’ biog

The sort of key information in an artist’s biography might be:

• The medium you work in
• A line about the key themes, concerns of your practice.
• Your showing history
• Your art related education (degree level onwards)
• Other interesting information relevant to your practice or career as an artist (e.g. collaborations or arts collectives, other areas or aspects to your career that inform your practice)
• Where you live and work

How to Write an Artist Biography

What is the artist’s biography.

While an artist resume and artist CV may seem similar to many artists, the artist bio is quite a bit different.  The biography serves more as a story rather than the credentials.  Typically the biography is written in editorial style, rather than the listing format of a CV or resume.  

Your bio will be used in various places and many applications and calls for art require differing lengths of artist bios.  It’s a good idea to create a short and long version of your biography that you can have on hand for varying submission requirements.

Often times artist biographies are used on “About the Artist” pages on personal websites, social media platforms, cover letters for galleries, press releases and editorials, and call for entry adjudication.

What information should you include in your artist bio?

• Open with something that encapsulates you as an artist before beginning the more biographical information. “Jane Doe is known for her …”
• Where you reside
• Where you are from
• Formal education and training
• Your artistic influences
• What inspires you as an artist
• What techniques you use
• Artists you've worked under/with
• Awards you’ve won
• Recognitions from media (newspaper, radio, television, websites)
• Commissions and other accomplishments
• Art shows you have curated or judged
• Brief overview
• Links to any websites or recent publications
• Note: try to keep the length down 

When writing your artist biography keep your audience in mind

It’s typically a good idea to write you bio in ‘Third Person’, where you refer to yourself as ‘he or she’ instead of ‘me, I, or my’.  Know who will be reading your biography and tailor your writing for them.  Will they be interested in your upcoming projects or more interested in your historical work?  Basic demographics about your reading audience are also helpful such as age, gender, ethnicity, culture, etc.

Show your bio to another well-established artist  

Get another pair of eyes on your writing.  Have a fellow artist review your artist bio and give tips on items that can be excluded or items that should be included based on your artist style and portfolio. Think of this like a portfolio review for a student! It also helps to have a non-artist review the bio for editing mistakes or typos.

Don’t write just one

You’ll want to write at least two versions of your artist bio (a short form and longer form) as well as revise and add/remove information as your art portfolio and career evolve. For example, on a website artist biography, you have a bit more freedom with length, but for social media platforms and other online systems you may be limited to the amount of data accepted.

What to avoid

We’ve given several tips on items that should be included in your artist bio, but here are a few things you want to avoid in your biography:

• Field jargon or flowery language
• Self-praise – don’t get carried away with self-praise.  Keep facts simple and concise
• Repetition or lengthy wording
• Grammar and language mistakes
• Life situation or personal details (illness, addiction, overcoming obstacles, etc.)
• Quotes from other famous artists or authors.  This is  your biography

ArtCall.org Portfolio sites make publishing your artist bio incredibly easy, as we have a built in “About the Artist” page that has an editable field for Artist Bio and Artist Statement, as well as CV!  If you don’t already have your artist portfolio website setup, Setup Your Artist Website!

How to Make the Most of Your Artist Bios: The Essential Guide for Galleries

It’s important to make the most of your artist bios. If they’re both well-written and used effectively they can also be a great tool for your digital marketing strategy.

An effective artist bio is a great way to introduce and engage collectors in an artist’s work. Unlike an artist statement or CV, it is usually a concise summary about the artist and their work. A good artist bio will provide the collector with enough information to make them want to learn more, without overwhelming them with too much detail. It’s important to make the most of your artist bios. If they’re both well-written and used effectively they can also be a great tool for your digital marketing strategy.

Read our guide below for all you need to know about writing the perfect artist bio and how to incorporate it into your marketing strategy.

What Things Should You Consider to Write an Effective Artist Bio? 

Use this list below as a helpful guide when writing your artist bios. Don’t worry about including every item on the list, in some cases, some criteria may not work depending on the artist. Use this as a guide to figure out what works best for your gallery and artists.

The Length of the Artists Bio

The length of your bios should be no more than 150 words. As mentioned before, the artist’s bio is a concise summary, not a detailed list of the artist’s exhibition history and achievements. Why should you stick to a 150 word cut off? An article by  Artsy  notes that museum studies on audience engagement have shown that anything longer than 150 words does not keep the reader’s attention. Note that is the recommended maximum length so if you keep your bios shorter, 80-100 words, that works too. It’s best to keep them succinct and to the point, rather than adding too many embellishments.

Craft an Engaging First Sentence   

The first sentence is the most important part of the bio. It’s where you grab the reader’s attention and make them want to learn more. Spend time crafting an engaging first sentence. Try to open with a sentence that summarizes the artist’s work and states what is most important about them, rather than opening with biographical information.  

Readability

The user experience is important to keep in mind. It seems simple, but there are plenty of published artists’ bios that are unpleasant to read. 

Confusing layouts, ugly font, hyperbolic praise, artspeak, too much information in one place: they all add up to a cluttered and irritating experience for readers. 

Keep it clean and simple. You may want to try to fit a lot of information in, but don’t get too bogged down in details or flowery language. Keeping it short and to the point will make sure it’s readable and friendly for your audience.

Educate First Vs the Hard-sell

Describe the artist’s work. To do this, focus on their medium technique and style. As well as the subject matter or main themes of their work. You can also include information that may not be too obvious from images of their work, like further insight into their method or process. Try to highlight what sets them apart and what is significant about their work. You can also include where they draw their inspiration from.

If possible, position the artist and their work in the context of art history, by time period, or art movement. Or you can place the artist in a wider cultural context. This could be specific to the political, social, or technological climate that they work in.

Engage the Audience With Artist Quotes  

Include a quote by the artist, if it’s relevant and it adds substance to any of the topics listed above. However, don’t include it as filler content just to add length to the bio.

Stay up to date on the latest from ARTERNAL

Most common artist bio mistakes to avoid, lengthy artists bios .

Avoid writing bios that are too long and have too much information about the artist’s CV, awards, and exhibition history. However impressive the information may be, long lists are a good way to lose your reader’s attention, it’s best to keep it short and to the point. You could always highlight a single notable award or exhibition, but careful not to go overboard. 

Spelling and Punctuation 

Avoid spelling and grammar mistakes. Proofreading is important. We recommend having at least one or two other eyes review your bios. Mistakes are easy to make, especially when you’re close to the material.  But missing these simple errors can diminish your gallery’s reputation and authority. Don’t underestimate the value of a good proofreader. 

Out of Date Artists Bios 

Make sure to keep your bios up to date. Avoid outdated bios by regularly checking them, once a year or so, to be sure they have the most up to date information. This is also an easy mistake that can damage your gallery’s credibility. This is especially important if you work with talented emerging artists. 

How Can Artist Bios Help Your Digital Marketing Strategy?

Now that you know the foundation of how to write a great artist bio, it’s time to make the most of them and incorporate them in your larger digital marketing strategy.

SEO and Artists Bios

One important factor to consider is SEO or search engine optimization. SEO is defined by  Moz  as “the practice of increasing the quantity and quality of traffic to your website through organic search engine results.” In other words, producing quality content in a way that search engines recognize as valuable to your audience so you rank higher in searches. A well-written bio with SEO in mind can help your gallery website continue to rank for keywords and search terms over time. So when writing your artist bios, think about what terms your audience will be searching for and incorporate those keywords into your bios. Keywords could include the artist’s name, subject matter, medium, or style of work.

Backlinks from Artists Bios

Along with using relevant keywords in your artist bios, another SEO factor to consider is link building. Search engines recognize your website as more important when reputable websites link to your website (also called backlinks). This, in turn, will also help you rank higher and get more organic traffic. To accomplish this start building relationships with organizations that you want links from. When it comes to backlinks, quality is more important than quantity. 

You can also use internal links to help with your SEO strategy. Link keywords or phrases in your artists’ bios to other pages on your website, again only if relevant.  Moz  offers a detailed beginners guide if you’d like to learn more about link building.

Use Social Media and Digital Tools to Share Your Artist Bios and Track Engagement 

Social media strategy and artists bios  .

Work with your artists and make sure that you’re on the same page when it comes to posting on social media. This way your social media initiatives will be mutually beneficial. When artists post about their work, it’s important they tag your gallery in the body of the post as well in the image they post. This will help drive traffic to your gallery website where you can engage with clients and continue conversations.

After your artist bios have been published make sure you’re set up with  Google Analytics  to track website engagement. Google Analytics collects and records user data so you can see what’s working and what areas might need improvement on your website. With Google Analytics you can find out which content or artists are performing best, how your visitors are finding your content, and information about your visitors. Check out expert digital marketer,  Neil Patel’s blog  to learn more about Google Analytics and how you can make the most of this free service.

Advanced Social Marketing Strategies with Artists Bios

The new battleground for galleries working with artists is the artist’s social media profile bio page. It’s now some of the most valuable real estates in the digital world. 

Influencer marketing is a powerful strategy for galleries to use with their artist bios. Andrew Chen, a startup growth expert, mentioned that “Whoever controls the link controls the business model for the new economy that’s being built.” Once a gallery has established a mutually beneficial relationship on social media with the artists, they can create a pseudo influencer marketing program that can treat artists as influencers and give galleries how to measure each artist’s Social Media ROI. 

Let’s dive into this in more detail. Here’s a screenshot of Andrew Cranston social media profile.

If we look at the link on his profile we can see it’s from INGLEBY Gallery. Upon clicking on the link it goes into Andre Carnston’s artist bio on their gallery webpage. 

Andrew has linked his social media profile to his artist bio from INGLEBY. Every time Andrew makes a post and viewers click on his profile link, the gallery is getting more exposure. This is an actionable strategy most galleries can put into action. Establishing an influencer marketing program with your artists is a great way to grow your following.

You can take your Google Analytics to the next level by using UTM Parameters to see which individual artist brings the most traffic from social media. Check out Neil Patel’s blog article on  UTM Parameters  to learn more.

Examples of Artist Bios

If you need more inspiration, before you start writing your artist bios, check out a few examples of our favorites on Artsy:

Jean-Michel Basquiat

Yayoi Kusama

Kehinde Wiley

Sophie Calle

You might also like these articles:

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What is an Artist Biography? A Comprehensive Guide

An artist biography is a well-crafted narrative that highlights the career, achievements, and personal story of an artist. it serves as an essential tool for connecting with fans, industry professionals, and the media..

Whether you are a musician or any other type of artist, a compelling biography can elevate your professional image and open doors to new opportunities.

What is an Artist Biography?

An artist biography (or ‘artist bio’) is usually a short paragraph about you and your career as a practitioner.

It may also contain a line about the key themes of your practice. Biographies are often confused with other tools used for self-promotion like artist CVs and artist statements.  Though presenting similar information, a biography differs from a CV in being only a paragraph written in prose. An artist's statement talks about the work and the thinking behind it, while the biography talks only about the person.

The sort of key information in an artist biography might be:

• The medium you work in
• A line about the key themes, and concerns of your practice.
• Your showing history
• Your art-related education (degree level onwards)
• Other interesting information relevant to your practice or career as an artist (e.g. collaborations or art collectives, other areas or aspects of your career that inform your practice)
• Where you live and work.

Importance of an Artist Biography

• Professional Image A well-crafted biography establishes credibility and makes a strong first impression on potential collaborators, promoters, and fans.
• Marketing and Promotion Your biography is a vital part of your marketing strategy. It can be used in press releases, social media profiles, websites, and promotional materials to attract media attention and provide journalists with essential information.
• Personal Connection Sharing your personal story helps build a loyal fan base and fosters stronger relationships with your audience.

Key Elements of an Artist Biography

1. introduction.

Start with a brief introduction that captures the reader's attention. Mention your name and a unique aspect of your career or personality.

2. Background and Education

Provide information about your background, including where you grew up and any formal education or training you received in your art form.

3. Career Highlights

Highlight key achievements in your career, such as notable awards, performances, collaborations, or publications.

4. Artistic Style and Influences

Describe your artistic style and the influences that have shaped your work. This helps the reader understand your creative vision and the context of your art.

5. Current Projects and Future Plans

Share information about your current projects and any upcoming performances, or releases. This keeps your audience informed and engaged with your latest work.

6. Personal Anecdotes

Including personal anecdotes or stories can make your biography more relatable and memorable. These can be experiences that influenced your art or milestones in your career.

Tips for Writing an Effective Artist Biography

1. be concise.

While it's important to include relevant information, keep your biography concise and to the point. Aim for one to two pages in length.

2. Write in Third Person

Writing in the third person gives your biography a professional tone and makes it easier for others to use it in promotional materials.

3. Use Active Voice

Active voice makes your writing more engaging and dynamic. It also helps to convey your achievements and experiences.

4. Highlight Unique Aspects

Emphasize what sets you apart from other artists. This could be your unique style, unusual career path, or distinctive influences.

5. Proofread and Edit

Ensure your biography is free of grammatical errors and typos. Consider asking a trusted friend or professional editor to review it for clarity and coherence.

An artist biography is a powerful tool that can significantly impact your professional image and career opportunities. By highlighting your background, achievements, and personal story, you can connect more deeply with your audience and attract the attention of industry professionals.

Whether you are a seasoned artist or just starting, investing time in crafting a compelling biography is well worth the effort.

Need A Professional Artist Biography?

If you need help writing or updating your artist biography, consider reaching out to professional biography writing services. With our expertise, we can create a captivating narrative that truly represents your artistic journey and vision.

We’ve written and designed over 500 musician biographies and artist press kits over the years, and have the reviews to show for it.

• Custom Bio: Two-page biography (700 - 1000 words).
• Unlimited Revisions: Until you're satisfied.
• SEO Optimization: Enhanced online visibility.
• Bio Distribution: Distribution of your biography to key music industry platforms, press outlets, and online music directories.
• Delivery: Final bio in PDF and Word formats within 3 days.

GET STARTED!

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Writing An Artist Biography

Published on

T he artist biography. It sounds so simple, right? Who is more equipped to write about your life and work than you? Well, sometimes it can be the hardest thing to write your own biography because you are too personally involved or are conscious about sounding too boastful. How do you decide which life events are important? Which aren’t? Organizing your own artistic journey into a succinct story can be a big challenge.

Luckily, we are here to help. In this guide, we’ll explain why you need an artist biography and what should be included in it. We will also offer an insight into what galleries are actually looking for when they read your artist biography.

Why Do I Need An Artist Biography?

It has become industry standard to have an artist biography prepared. It should be in your portfolio and on your website. Additionally, once you start exhibiting, this artist bio will find its way onto gallery websites, exhibition materials, and may even be quoted in interviews.

Useful Article: How To Create A Professional Portfolio

While you may want to customize your bio for every situation, it is a good idea to have one all-purpose text prepared at all times. Your artist biography is necessary for most competition entries, gallery and museum submissions, and promotional requests. It is one of the first things that anyone will reference on your website in order to decide if they would be interested in working with you.

What Is The Difference Between An Artist Biography, Artist CV, and Artist Statement?

Being an artist today can be a challenge. As the art industry expands, there is a growing demand for professionalism. There is a long list of necessary (and optional) documents and exhibition materials, like an Artist Statement , Business Cards , a Portfolio and so on.

You could obviously hire someone or collaborate with a representational gallery like Agora to take care of the marketing and publicity. However, there are three important documents that have to come from you – Artist CV, Artist Statement, and Artist Biography. People often confuse the three but they actually serve completely different purposes.

An Artist CV is a timeline of your education, your exhibition history, awards, projects, and press you’ve received. It tells a reader at a glance what you have done in the past, whether it includes previous exhibitions, employment, awards, etc., and lets them decide whether you are the right fit for the job/exhibition.

You could argue that it is basically the artist biography in list form. However, your artist biography includes more information about you as an artist and not just bullet points.

An artist bio talks about your work and your ideas and inspirations. It incorporates your history and connects how your life events have influenced your artwork.

Were you born in the center of New York City, but have always longed for a countryside lifestyle? Is that why you’re an acclaimed rural landscape painter? That’s not going to find its way onto your CV, but the artist biography is the perfect place for that information. Whatever you do, wherever you’re from, it all comes together to create your style and the artwork that you want to share.

Did You Know?  We have written a “How-To” article on creating virtually every document and exhibition material that you might need. Browse through our How-To Tutorials and Marketing Your Art categories of the blog for useful advice and ideas. 

An Artist Statement , on the other hand, is much more similar to your biography. More often than not, it is the front line of communication between an artist and the public. It will be used when you submit your portfolio to competitions, galleries, and museums. It is also usually displayed alongside your works during exhibitions and in galleries. This gives it a sort of flexible nature.

You might have to write a new statement for every exhibition if your works are versatile. The artist biography, however, remains more or less the same. You would only need to update it in case of any major changes to your status or developments in your work. Another major difference between the two documents is that an artist statement is always written in the first person while a biography always talks about you in the third person.

The infographic at the bottom of the page differentiates between all three of these essential artist documents.

Narrowing Down Your Artist Biography

No matter how old you are, you’ve lived a full life of major events and wonderful memories. However, your artist biography needs to be no longer than one printed page. For some submissions, it’ll be even shorter!

That’s why you need to narrow your artist biography down to the key points: show the reader where you’ve been and where you want to go as an artist . The best way to get started is to understand your own artistic path. By answering just a few key questions about yourself, you can figure out what those critical points were in your life that have most influenced your journey as an artist.

Sit down with a pen and paper and answer the following questions:

Take your answers and review them. Can you draw a line from any of your life events to your art today?

Once you have an idea, you’ll have to carefully work this into your life story in a way that seems focused, interesting, and (as painful as it may be) concise.

What Galleries/Museums/Press Are Looking For In Your Artist Biography

There isn’t a definitive list as to what facts you must include in your artist biography. Everybody’s different, and so are our stories. So what does Agora Gallery look for in an artist biography?

1. It is the right length

We said it before, but this biography should not be longer than one page. When you send in your artist biography, always check to see if they have word requirements. At Agora Gallery, we prefer that your artist biography is between 100-600 words.

2. It is written in the third person

Yes, you are writing about yourself, but this isn’t the time for “I” and “me” – now is the time for “he” or “she.” An artist biography should be something that can be printed word-for-word in an article or catalog. One or two self-quotations can add some personality and variety, but for the most part you’ll want to save your “I, Me, Mine” for your artist statement.

3. It is interesting and accessible

You don’t need to have been the first man on the moon to have an interesting story to tell. Your most decisive moments in life don’t need to be action-packed: your life may have been changed by something you thought of in the shower. Whether you have an adventure story or something low-key, tell your story in a way that we can relate to. A big part of that is keeping your tone clear and professional, yet not too clinical and detached.

4. We can read it

Proofread your artist biography. Have somebody else look at it, too. Even at Agora, we make sure everything is checked over by at least two people before it is published. Nothing looks less professional than a text littered with spelling and grammar mistakes.

On the other side of the same coin, don’t over-complicate your language. Using highly advanced vocabulary may prove that you’re educated, but it might also alienate many of your readers. The Hemingway Editor , a free online tool, can help you keep your writing from getting too complex.

5. It explains the history of your artwork

Help us draw that connection between you as an artist and your artwork. Let us see your artistic influences and your journey. Again, we don’t need a carbon copy of your CV, we want to know the ‘who’ and ‘why’ of your art. Mentioning other artists who have influenced your work can help contextualize your work and also add legitimacy to it.

6. It doesn’t exaggerate

Don’t hyperbolize. Art professionals know when they’re being lied to, and we aren’t impressed when artists say they’re the “best” in their fields. Which leads us to our next point…

7. It doesn’t judge your work on our behalf

The artist biography should talk about the story behind the work. Talk about your influences, your themes, and your journey. When discussing yourself, avoid words like “visionary,” “prolific,” “extraordinary,” or “genius.” Let the readers come to that conclusion for themselves.

8. It includes the “greatest hits.”

It is important to include some of your biggest achievements in your biography. Tell us about major exhibitions, sales, partnerships, and awards. Just remember to stay focused. You shouldn’t mention more than five achievements in your artist biography, or the writing, tone, and interest level will all suffer. This information can often fit nicely in your final paragraph.

9. It keeps us wanting more

Your biography should give us just enough to get a sense of you and your work, and it should make us want to see the works. So don’t write too much: don’t exhaust your reader with so many details that, by the end of it, they have no more energy to give to your works, your statement, or any of the rest of your portfolio.

Above all, you should feel confident and passionate about what you are writing. Not only are you selling your artwork, but you’re selling the artist behind those masterpieces.

Maintain , Update, And Grow

After all is said and done, make sure to remember that your artist biography will grow and change with you. Don’t be afraid to edit your bio as your artistic style changes, as inspirations come and go, or as techniques and subjects develop with time. No artist creates the exact same works over and over again, and your biography should reflect that movement through your artistic journey.

Stay in touch with us! Our Newsletter is packed with inspiring stories, art tips, and Agora Gallery’s latest exhibition announcements.

Sample Of An Artist Biography

Mary pearson.

After completing her degree, Mary delved even more into her photographic practice,which involved loss and regeneration of life. The images, that Mary takes on her walks in the landscape, are only part of the narrative. She uses the practice of burying her film negatives in the earth to allow the natural environment a voice. It is a collaboration between the artist and the land. Mary cherishes this connection with nature. She feels that the artistic exchange between the land and the artist opens up many opportunities.

Mary has also trained as a teacher, specializing in Further Education. She teaches 16-18-year-olds in order to help them foster the same enthusiasm that she has for photography. She is also pursuing a Master’s Degree in Photography at Plymouth University alongside her teaching.

Mary was selected as one of the Graduates featured in Source Magazine (2014), Ffotogallery Cardiff.  In 2015, she was a finalist South West Graduate Prize. Her series called ‘Biosigna’ or Life Signals has been exhibited in London as well as in Bristol.

Mary lives and works in South Devon, surrounded by the sea and Dartmoor National Park.

As a promotional gallery, we take pride in the diverse group of artists from across the globe represented by us. Want to give your art more time, and leave the marketing and promotional hassles to someone else? Book an online career development consultation meeting today.

Give your art and your story a face.  An artist biography isn’t always just about the words. By including a headshot, you can help readers connect with you on a more personal level. Don’t have a good headshot? It’s easy to get one!

For more advice from the Agora Experts, subscribe to our newsletter . Stay tuned to the Agora Advice Blog for regular updates and more.

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22 responses to “Writing An Artist Biography”

Fantastic advice Algora. I will apply all of it to my journey as a chainsaw sculptor.

I need this site    https://www.agora-gallery.com/  for guest posting so please tell me a price.  If you have sites that accept guest posts, So send me the full list with all the metrics.

I am waiting for your positive response.  waiting and thanks  

Thank you so much for this information! I am writing my artist statement and biography for my first fine art showing outside of college education. I’m glad I found your article as I aim to launch my artistic career.

This may well be the best and most professional way to write an artist biography. I was searching about to find out whether to use my last name rather than first to write a 3rd person bio. While using the first name is more immediate and familiar, using my last name (though I don’t really like the impersonal-ness of it) is more formal and has more “bigness” to it. Thank you.

Thank you so much for the great article. It is very detailed, specific, and helpful. I certainly used it while I was struggling with my first Artist’s (photographer’s) Bio.

very helpful and necessary

Thank you for this valuble information and if ever I get resources enough I will be in touch with you to further help my career as a painter.

We are glad that our article proved useful and we’re looking forward to hearing back from you!

I am writing my first artist bio and statement for a juried show and I have to say that all this information has been absolutely fantastic! Really helpful, I feel like I have a place to start. Only questions is, is there a good font? and what about font size?

Hi Francesca! We’re glad our article was helpful! There is no rule of thumb when it comes to the font and sizes used, but our recommendation is to go for something classic, like Times New Roman or Arial, size 12 or 14.

A very useful and helpful link’s, Thanks!

Thank you so much that was really helpful

Thank you very much

thank you very much for this information. You inspire the right path for me.

Thank you for inspire me in never stop dreaming, since my age won’t be any obstacle to bring new artworks in your distinguish gallery. You will hear from me soon, this time is for sure. Thanks Mirza Zelaya-Cosio.

Yours has been the best advice I have found for writing bios. With it I hope to write a well composed biography. Thank you. Patricia Kent

Thank you, Patricia!

What a perfect read, i read each of the word you said in your post. This helps me a lot to start my own blog related to artist biographies. Thanks a lot.

Thanks so very much for this piece. In addition to being an artist, I also write self-help books (not on art! on personal development). It took me years before I realized that each of my professions fed the other and I finally put together a combined CV… but just a CV. It hadn’t occurred to me until I read through your very nicely conceived side-by-side lists that I would do well to work this into my bio as well! Much appreciated!

Thanks for the clear advice about preparing an artist’s biography. There is one area that I have concerns about: the need to include the artist’s date of birth. Unless an exhibition, residency or award has a specific age focus, it is unwise to include this information as it undoubtedly influences those with entrenched ageist attitudes. Can a person be an ’emerging artist’ at 40, 50, 60 or 70 and beyond? Of course they can!! I met a 72 year old artist at an international residency, s/he was inspiring and utterly dedicated. In Australia ( and I suspect elsewhere), such discrimination is rampant and, while it is never acknowledged openly, there is no doubt that it becomes a factor in selection and promotion of an artist. My advice to artists is to allow the reader to focus on your commitment, achievements and artistic journey. Any gallery worth showing in does not concern itself with the age, or indeed the gender identification, of the artist whose works they are considering.

Absolutely, Gillian! Agora Gallery never requires that an artist biography includes the date of birth. For some, it may be an interesting fact to include, but age is by no means a “‘required” piece of information. Many of our artists began their careers in full after retirement, so we’re well aware that one shouldn’t judge talent by youth!

Thank you for reading & lending your thoughts. We hope to hear from you again!

Thanks so much for publishing all these helpful and informative tutorials.

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The Secret to Writing a Great Artist Biography and Statement

• September 26, 2022

Reading time: 15 minutes

• A great artist’s biography and statement should be concise, engaging, and highlight the artist’s background, influences, and artistic style.
• Personalising the biography and statement is important to showcase the artist’s unique voice and perspective.
• Including specific details about exhibitions, awards, and collaborations enhances the credibility and professional appeal of the artist’s biography and statement.

Introduction: The Importance of an Artist Biography and Statement

An artist’s biography and statement play a crucial role in providing a comprehensive overview of an artist’s life and work. These carefully crafted text pieces are essential for promoting an artist’s work and can greatly impact their acceptance into galleries, museums, and other institutions.

A well-written and informative artist biography should offer readers insights into the artist’s style, influences, and achievements. Although there is no fixed formula for writing an artist biography, it should encompass key elements such as an introduction, background story, professional experience, notable projects, awards and honours, and an artist statement.

This article aims to emphasise the significance of having both an artist biography and a statement. It will provide guidance on what should be included in these texts and offer tips on writing about your artistic journey effectively.

Why Do I Need an Artist Biography and Statement?

An artist’s biography holds immense importance in establishing your professional identity as an artist. It serves as a document that introduces both you and your work to the world. Your artist biography should be concise, well-written, and informative, giving readers a glimpse into your artistic persona and the essence of your creations.

An artist biography serves multiple purposes, such as applying for grants or residencies, submitting work to galleries or exhibitions, and acting as a promotional tool to generate interest in your art. It also allows you to market yourself and your work to potential collectors and clients, showcasing the unique value you bring to the art world.

A well-written artist biography can help you achieve your artistic goals and establish your name in the art world.

What Is The Difference Between An Artist Biography, Artist Statement and a Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume?

While all three documents provide information about an artist, they serve different purposes. Here are the main distinctions between these formats:

• Artist Biography: An artist biography is a concise summary of an artist’s life and work. It should cover the artist’s education, training, awards, exhibitions, and other notable experiences. When writing an artist biography, it is crucial to focus on the work itself rather than self-promotion. The biography aims to provide a brief overview of the artist’s identity, artistic goals, and why their work resonates with people
• Artist Statement: An artist statement is a brief description of an artist’s work, usually written by the artist themselves. It serves as an introduction to their art and conveys the intentions behind their creative process. The artist statement offers insights into the concepts, inspirations, techniques, and themes explored in the artist’s work. It helps viewers understand the artist’s perspective and the meaning conveyed through their creations.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume: An artist’s CV or resume is a comprehensive document that includes the artist’s contact information, education, professional experience, awards, and honors. It provides a detailed overview of the artist’s background and accomplishments. Unlike the artist biography and statement, which focus on the artist’s artistic journey and creative approach, the CV/resume emphasizes the artist’s qualifications, exhibitions, commissions, publications, and any other relevant professional achievements.

It is important to tailor each document to its specific purpose and audience. The artist biography and statement convey the artist’s unique voice and artistic vision, while the CV/resume provides a comprehensive overview of their professional achievements in the art world.

What to Include in an Artist Biography

When writing an artist biography, it is important to consider the general style and format that adheres to the standards of a biography. A biography is a concise account of an artist’s life and work, aiming to engage readers and establish an emotional connection with them.

To create an effective artist biography, it is essential to understand the target audience and purpose of the biography, whether it is for educational, entertainment, or promotional purposes.

Here are some elements to include in your artist biography:

• Conciseness: Keep the biography short and to the point. As a general rule, it should not exceed one page in length.
• Personal details: Include relevant personal information such as your name, age, location, and educational background. You may also mention your interests and hobbies to add a personal touch.
• Artistic focus: Clearly state what you do as an artist, whether it is painting landscapes or practicing abstract expressionism. Mention the mediums you work with or the specific style you specialize in.
• Artistic background: Provide information about your artistic education and experience. This can include any relevant degrees, workshops, or apprenticeships you have completed.
• Achievements and accolades: Highlight any awards, grants, or honors you have received in your artistic career. This helps showcase your credibility and expertise.
• Professional contact: Conclude the biography with a professional contact, such as your email address or phone number, for interested parties to reach out to you.
• Third-person perspective: Write the artist biography in the third person point of view, avoiding personal pronouns like “I” or “me.” This adds a professional tone to the biography.

Remember to be honest in your biography and only include accomplishments that you are comfortable sharing. You can draw information from your Artist Curriculum Vitae/Resume and present it in prose form, emphasizing the details that best describe your artistic journey.

Artist Biography Examples

Following a simple and proven formula, the template below can serve as a guide:

(Artist name) lives and works in _________.  [x]   received a ___ degree from _________ (year). Some of  [x]  recent exhibitions include _________, _________, and _________.  [x]  received the _________ award/prize/grant in (year).  [x]   works are in a number of collections, including _________ and _________. _________ and _________ have reviewed  [x]   work.

[Artist Name] is an [adjective] artist known for [artistic focus]. With [mention years of experience or education], [x] has gained recognition for [achievements or notable projects]. [Artist Name]’s work is [describe style, theme, or technique]. [x] has received [awards or accolades] for [mention specific accomplishments]. For more information or inquiries, please contact [professional contact details].

X = Preferred Gender Pronoun

Alternatively, the artist’s educational line could identify that they interned, studied, or worked in a studio. By adhering to these guidelines, you can create a compelling artist biography that effectively communicates your artistic identity and captivates readers.

What to Include in Engaging Artist Statements

An artist statement serves as a written description of an artist’s work, helping viewers understand their artistic practice and intentions. It should be consistent, descriptive, and reflective, providing a basis for the artwork and connecting it to an art context.

Here are some points to consider when crafting an effective artist statement :

• Artistic style: Describe your artistic style or approach, highlighting the techniques, mediums, or themes you explore in your work.
• Influences: Discuss the influences that have shaped your artistic journey, whether they are specific artists, movements, or personal experiences.
• Goals: Share your artistic goals and aspirations, including what you aim to communicate or achieve through your work.
• Background: Provide some background information about yourself, such as your artistic background, education, or any significant experiences that have influenced your artistic practice.
• Accomplishments: Mention any notable accomplishments, exhibitions, awards, or recognition you have received for your work.
• Philosophy on art: Express your philosophy or beliefs about art-making, the creative process, or the role of art in society.

When writing your artist statement, aim for a clear and concise overview of your work while also conveying a strong statement of intent. This will help potential collectors and curators understand your artistic intentions and engage with your work more deeply.

Write in the First Person

Unlike artist biographies, which are written in the third person, artist statements should be written in the first person. Writing in this format adds a personal and authentic touch, making your statement sound more authoritative and allowing readers to connect with you as an artist.

Artist Statement Examples

Here is an example of a short artist statement:

“I create art to convey my personal impressions and emotions about life. Through my paintings, I aim to capture fleeting moments and evoke emotions in viewers. My hope is that my art will prompt people to pause, see the world from a different perspective, and find inspiration within themselves.”

During my university days, I recall listening to peer review critique sessions where untold levels of ‘art speak’ associated with contemporary art theory were used.

Art speak, like academic speak, refers to the tendency of people in specialised fields to speak or write as if everyone else understands the same thing. When communicating, these people frequently come across as pretentious and pedantic, and they use perplexing academic jargon.

When it comes to the inclusion of plain-speaking non-specialists, I strongly advise using the principles of a simple writing style, as simple ideas can get complicated fairly quickly.

Presentation: Online or Print

When presenting your artist biography or statement online or in print, it is important to ensure readability and clarity. Use clear headings for each section and balance white space to make the text visually appealing.

To improve readability, consider using sans-serif typefaces like Arial, Helvetica, Proxima Nova, Futura, or Calibri for headers and serif typefaces like Times New Roman, Garamond, Baskerville, Georgia, or Courier New for content. Limit the number of typefaces to two, one for headers and another for content, to maintain consistency and visual cohesion.

By following these guidelines, you can create an artist statement that effectively communicates your artistic practice and engages viewers with your work.

What Galleries, Museums & Press Look For In Artist Biographies/Statements

Galleries, museums, and the press are looking for certain elements in artist biographies and statements that can help them understand the artist’s background, experience, and creative intentions. Here are some key factors they consider:

• Background story: They want to know about the artist’s origins, upbringing, and any significant life experiences that have influenced their artistic journey. This helps create a connection and context for their work.
• Professional experience: They look for a solid resume of the artist’s professional accomplishments, including the number of years they have been practicing art, exhibitions they have participated in, and notable clients or collectors they have worked with.
• Notable projects: They are interested in learning about the artist’s best or most significant art pieces or projects. This showcases the artist’s capabilities and can generate intrigue and interest.
• Awards and honours: Recognition from reputable sources, such as awards, grants, or residencies, adds credibility to an artist’s profile and demonstrates their talent and potential.
• Engaging artist statement: A well-written artist statement is crucial as it provides insights into the artist’s creative intentions, motivations, and artistic philosophy. It helps viewers understand the concepts, themes, or messages behind the artwork.

To be successful in the art world, it is important for artists to have a compelling biography that effectively communicates their background, experience, and artistic vision. The biography should be written in a way that captivates readers and leaves them wanting to learn more about the artist and their work.

How to Write a Professional Artist’s Biography

A biography is a narrative that goes beyond a mere list of achievements. It should provide a comprehensive and dynamic portrait of the artist and their artistic journey.

When crafting your artist biography, it is important to consider that your career is an ongoing process of growth and development. As you achieve new milestones and gain additional knowledge and experience, your biography should evolve accordingly. Continuously update and refine your biography to accurately reflect your current achievements and artistic trajectory.

By regularly revisiting and revising your artist biography, you can ensure that it remains a true representation of your career and effectively showcases your professional accomplishments.

To help you in your writing endeavours, I will share with you the following process:

• K ey Point : Define each key point in one sentence.
• E laborate: How do I give a more detailed explanation of the point(s)?
• E xample: Specific examples are vital. What example would help my reader remember this point?
• P ractical advice or insight: What do you want your reader to do or remember?

By defining key points concisely, elaborating on them with detailed explanations, providing relevant examples, and offering practical advice or insights, you can ensure that your writing effectively communicates your message and leaves a lasting impact on your readers.

Step 1: Understanding Your Audience

A successful artist biography is informative and engaging, capturing the interest of potential clients and galleries. To achieve this, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your target audience.

Before crafting your biography, consider the passions, interests, and concerns of your readers. By gaining insight into their preferences, you can create a profile that resonates with them.

An artist’s biography plays a pivotal role in the marketing campaigns of emerging artists. It serves as an initial impression on potential clients and often influences their decision to purchase your artwork.

• Define your target audience. Who are your intended readers?

Step 2: Defining Your Objective

The introduction of your artist biography is crucial as it serves as a hook to grab the reader’s attention and encourage them to explore further. This paragraph should be concise and captivating, providing a glimpse into your identity and artistic endeavors.

The objective of your introduction is to leave a lasting impact on the reader, prompting them to continue reading and engage with your work. Success, in this case, would mean capturing the reader’s interest, making them curious to discover more about you and your artistic journey.

• Define your objective clearly. What specific outcome or impression would you like to achieve by the time the reader has finished reading the introduction?

Step 3: Crafting the Introduction

Your artist’s biography holds significant weight in shaping people’s opinions of you. It is a critical document that requires meticulous attention to detail. Therefore, it is beneficial to create multiple drafts of your biography and carefully edit them.

Begin with a rough draft to get started, and then revise it thoroughly. Pay close attention to spelling and grammar errors, ensuring flawless execution. Additionally, review the document for any other necessary changes or improvements.

• Focus on crafting an introduction that hooks the audience and quickly grabs the reader’s attention. How can you captivate and engage the reader from the very beginning?

Step 4: Editing and Reviewing

Before submitting your artist biography, it is crucial to thoroughly review and edit it one final time. Spending a few extra minutes on this step will ensure that your biography is flawless.

To avoid overlooking any errors, it is recommended to have someone else review your work. They can catch mistakes that you may have missed, as it is easy to become blind to errors after staring at something for a long time.

During the editing process, consider the following:

• Clarity of Purpose: Is the purpose of your biography clear?
• Understandability: Are each of your sentences easily comprehensible on first reading?
• Relevance: Do your points clearly relate to your intended reader?
• Simplicity of Language: Is the language used as simple as possible?
• Proofreading: Avoid relying solely on spellcheck. Read from the bottom up, from left to right.
• Review: Seek someone else’s input to review spelling and grammar, readability, sentence length, and overall accessibility.

Lastly, ensure that you provide evidence or examples to illustrate key points in your biography. This will help support and strengthen the information you convey.

• Focus on illustrating your key points. Do you have sufficient evidence or examples to support and illustrate the points mentioned in your biography?

Step 5: Seek Feedback from Another Artist

Inviting another artist to read and provide feedback on your biography is a valuable step in the process. This gives you the opportunity to gain a fresh perspective and gather suggestions or feedback that you may not have considered before.

Having an artist review your biography can lead to the identification of inaccuracies or provide valuable insights on missing elements or potential additions.

This final step is crucial, as it ensures the accuracy and appeal of your biography to potential fans. By incorporating the feedback from another artist, you can refine and enhance your biography for maximum impact.

Now, it’s time to reach out to another artist and ask them to review your biography. Their insights will be instrumental in making your artist biography accurate and compelling.

Bonus Step: Continual Enhancement of Your Biography

An artist biography is a dynamic account of your career that evolves over time. It is not a static document that captures your entire life but rather a living representation of who you are in the present and can be updated as your artistic career develops .

To maintain, update, and grow your biography, consider the following:

• Regular Updates: Your biography should be regularly updated with new information as it arises. It should reflect your current achievements, experiences, and aspirations.
• Reflecting Changes: If you have recently graduated or changed careers, ensure that these updates are incorporated into your biography.
• Highlighting Accomplishments: Include any awards, honours, or recognition you have received in your field to showcase your achievements.

Now, let’s assess the criteria for your biography:

• Audience Focus: Is your biography tailored to the intended audience?
• Objective: Is it clear to the reader what you are trying to achieve? Have you successfully achieved it? Is there a clear call to action?
• Attention-Grabbing: Did you captivate your readers from the beginning? Did you have to refocus their attention at any point?
• Clarity: Can a reader easily identify and remember the key points from your biography? Is your writing clear and easy to follow?
• Language Use: Are all words, sentences, and paragraphs easily understandable on first reading?

Lastly, consider your call to action. What specific action do you want the reader to take after reading your biography?

By continuously enhancing and updating your biography, you can ensure that it remains relevant, engaging, and effective in achieving your goals.

Common Mistakes in Artist Biographies

When crafting an artist’s biography, it’s essential to avoid common mistakes and errors. Here are some tips on what to avoid:

• Not Telling Your Story: Share your artistic journey from its beginnings to the present. Discuss influences, education, experience, and aspirations in a thoughtful and engaging manner. This is also an area to keep in mind when doing art marketing and self-promotion.
• Presenting Your Biography in the First Person: Write your biography as if it were written by someone else about you; make sure to use third-person pronouns for a more professional tone. Additionally, if you need to write a press release, use third person pronouns because they sound more authoritative and professional.
• Substituting an Artist’s Statement: Avoid blending your artist’s statement with your biography. Keep them separate and focus on providing a comprehensive biography.
• Providing a CV instead: Remember that a CV is a resume of an artist’s experience, whereas a biography tells the story of your artistic journey. Ensure that you provide the appropriate document when requested.
• Spelling and Grammar Mistakes: Proofread your biography to eliminate any spelling or grammar errors. With so many excellent online tools available, there is no reason not to.
• Insufficient Information: Avoid being too brief or providing incomplete information. Make your biography purposeful and informative.
• Lengthy Biographies: Keep your biography concise, as readers may not have much time to devote to reading it.
• Lack of Experience: If you have limited experience, focus on your personal story and explain your journey as an artist. Be honest and creative.
• Missing Contact Information: Include your full name, mailing address, phone number, email address, and website address for easy contact.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your artist biography is professional, engaging, and accurately represents your artistic career development .

Conclusion: Skillful Writing is an Art

Artist bios and statements are difficult texts to write, but  I hope this blog post has provided you with some fresh inspiration as well as the essential elements you should include. Additionally, when considering artist biography vs artist statement , it should allow you to recognise the difference easier.

One of the most important aspects of writing these texts is making sure they are clear, concise, and well-organized. To that end, I outlined the key skills required for these pieces of text and offered some advice on how to achieve that goal.

I cannot emphasize enough how important an artist biography and statement are when discussing your work and life.

If you are an artist, ensure that your biography and statement are well-written, and that you represent and promote your work to the best of your ability.

You can read my one page profile biography and statement here!

If you enjoyed this article, please show your support by subscribing to my mailing list and sharing it with your network! As an independent artist, your support means the world to me. Your time is valuable, and I appreciate you taking the time to read my blog.

Don’t miss out on future articles and updates – subscribe now and stay connected!

I Can Write For You!

Adrian Reynolds, or ‘Ren,’ is a Dublin-based contemporary artist.  His works are a reaction to the world around us. A world that continues to evolve quicker than ever. His work investigates colour, form, and texture, putting them at the intersection of abstraction and representation. His art has been shown in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Latest Artwork

The Axilla of Plutocracy

The Axilla of Plutocracy | Fine Art by Adrian Reynolds

Mono to Chromatic Convergence – SOLD

Mono to Chromatic Convergence | Fine Art by Adrian Reynolds

Bullets Travel Distance & Time

Bullets Travel Distance & Time | Acrylic Painting By Adrian Reynolds

The Perception of Narrative – SOLD

The Perception of Narrative | Fine Art Acrylic Painting By Adrian Reynolds

• Music Production
• How To Write a Music Artist Bio: How To Write a Music Biography

A well-crafted music artist bio is an essential tool for any musician looking to establish their brand, connect with fans, and capture the attention of industry professionals. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned artist, your bio is often the first point of contact between you and your audience. It serves as a snapshot of who you are, what you’ve achieved, and what makes your music unique. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to writing an engaging and effective music artist bio that tells your story and highlights your career.

Why Is a Music Artist Bio Important?

Your music artist bio is more than just a list of facts; it’s a narrative that showcases your personality, your journey, and your artistic vision. A strong bio can:

• Attract Fans : By telling your story in a relatable and engaging way, you can draw in listeners who connect with your music on a deeper level;
• Impress Industry Professionals : A well-written bio can capture the attention of labels, promoters , and journalists , leading to new opportunities;
• Boost Your Online Presence : Your bio is often the first thing people see on your website, social media profiles, or streaming platforms , making it a key component of your online brand.

Recommendations on How to Write a Good Bio for a Musician

Writing a music artist bio can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to talking about yourself in a professional context. Here are some recommendations to help you craft a bio that stands out:

• Keep It Concise : Your bio should be informative but not overwhelming. Aim for around 200-300 words for a short bio, and up to 600 words for a more detailed version;
• Be Authentic : Your bio should reflect your true self. Authenticity resonates with readers and helps build a genuine connection with your audience;
• Highlight Achievements : While it’s important to tell your story, don’t forget to include your achievements, such as awards, notable performances, collaborations, and releases;
• Use a Conversational Tone : Write in a way that feels natural and engaging. Avoid overly formal language, as it can come across as distant or impersonal;
• Tailor It to Your Audience : Consider who will be reading your bio. If it’s for a press kit, focus on your professional achievements. If it’s for your website, you can include more personal details.

A Description of the Main Steps

To help you write a compelling music artist bio, here’s a breakdown of the main steps involved:

1. Start with an Interesting Introduction

Your introduction is the first thing readers will see, so it’s important to grab their attention right away. Consider starting with a memorable quote, an interesting fact about your background, or a brief overview of your musical style.

Example: “With a voice that resonates like a warm breeze through the pines, John Doe brings a fresh perspective to the indie folk scene. Hailing from the rugged mountains of Colorado, his music captures the spirit of the wilderness and the raw emotions of life’s journey.”

2. Provide a Brief Description of Your Background

Next, give readers a sense of where you come from and how you got started in music . This section should be brief but informative, providing context for your musical journey.

Example: “John Doe discovered his passion for music at a young age, strumming his first guitar at the age of 10. Inspired by the likes of Bob Dylan and Neil Young, he began writing his own songs, blending poetic lyrics with intricate melodies. After years of performing at local venues, John’s talent was recognized by a prominent producer, leading to the release of his debut EP in 2018.”

3. Describe Your Music and Influences

This is where you can dive into what makes your music unique. Describe your sound, your influences, and what listeners can expect from your music . Be specific and avoid clichés.

Example: “John’s music is a fusion of indie folk and Americana, with a touch of blues that adds depth to his sound. His songwriting is influenced by the storytelling traditions of Folk legends, while his guitar work is reminiscent of the intricate fingerpicking styles of the blues greats. Each song is a journey, inviting listeners to explore themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning.”

4. Highlight Your Career and Achievements

Now it’s time to showcase your accomplishments. Include details about your discography, notable performances, collaborations, awards, and any other highlights of your career. If you’re a newer artist, focus on the milestones you’ve reached so far.

Example: “Since his debut, John has released two full-length albums, both of which received critical acclaim. His sophomore album, ‘Whispers of the Pines,’ was named one of the top indie folk albums of 2020 by Folk Monthly. He has performed at major festivals, including the Rocky Mountain Folk Festival and the Americana Music Festival, and has shared the stage with artists such as Brandi Carlile and The Avett Brothers.”

5. Conclude with a Call to Action

End your bio with a brief statement that encourages readers to explore your music further. This could be an invitation to listen to your latest album, follow you on social media, or attend an upcoming show.

Example: “John Doe’s music is a journey through the heart and soul of America. Discover his latest album, ‘Whispers of the Pines,’ available now on all major s treaming platforms . Follow John on social media to stay updated on his upcoming tour dates and new releases.”

Additional Tips and Advice on How to Write a Bio

• Update Regularly : Your bio should evolve as your career progresses. Make it a habit to update your bio whenever you release new music , win an award, or achieve a significant milestone;
• Get Feedback : Before finalizing your bio, ask for feedback from trusted friends, fellow musicians, or industry professionals. They can offer valuable insights and help you refine your narrative;
• Use Visuals : If possible, pair your bio with high-quality photos or videos that complement your story. Visuals can make your bio more engaging and help readers connect with your music on a deeper level;
• Avoid Overly Technical Language : While it’s important to describe your music , avoid using too much technical jargon. Your bio should be accessible to all readers, not just musicians;
• Be Consistent : Ensure that your bio is consistent across all platforms, including your website, social media, and streaming profiles. This helps maintain a cohesive brand image.

Writing a compelling music artist bio is a critical part of building your brand and connecting with your audience. By following these steps and incorporating the tips provided, you can craft a bio that not only highlights your achievements but also tells the story of who you are as an artist. Remember, your bio is an ever-evolving narrative that should grow with you as your career progresses. Keep it updated, authentic, and reflective of your unique journey in the music industry.

Whether you’re a budding artist just starting out or an established musician looking to refine your bio, this guide provides the tools you need to create a powerful and engaging biography that resonates with fans and industry professionals alike.

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The Beginning Artist

Artist Statement & Artists Bio Examples

As an artist you normally only have a few seconds to grab the attention of your audience. If there is something slightly off and your art doesn’t captivate someone right away, people are just going to pass along.

Your artist statement and artist bio are the same. You want them to quickly hit on all the important point without losing someone’s attention, similar to an elevator pitch.

Artist Statement Vs. Artists Bio

The artist statement and artist bio are very different. The most important difference is that the artist statement should be about your art, and the artist bio should be about you as a person and artist. The artist statement is written in the first person and the artist bio in the third person.

Things that you can include in your artist statement:

• The current direction of your work
• Why people should look at your art
• How people can interpret your art

Things that you can include in your artist bio:

• Your art style
• The driving force behind your art
• Main achievements
• Teachers you studied with
• Artists and artworks that inspire you

Let’s first go over some artist statements examples and look at the artist biographies afterwards.

Examples of great artist statements

.ugb-e273d12 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important}.ugb-e273d12.ugb-blockquote > .ugb-inner-block{max-width:90% !important} My subject matter is nature, whether it is a traditional landscape or a bird and flower painting. I use traditional materials, ink and brush on rice paper, to capture movement and life – making the brush dance and the ink sing. Everything is captured in the spontaneous dance and movement of the brush as it meets the rice paper. There is no going back and correcting when painting with ink and rice paper. By Charlene Fuhrman-Schultz

.ugb-6cfd880 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important}.ugb-6cfd880.ugb-blockquote > .ugb-inner-block{max-width:90% !important} My work investigates technology as a meeting point of concurrent, overlapping systems; a nexus of cultural, computational, biological, and economic forces. In uncovering, augmenting, and creating systems of intertwinement, I am trying to touch a sense of “liveness” or a nearly-living quality, the dynamism resulting from the unpredictable performances of various actants pulling independently in collective balance. Through a variety of media – installation, kinetic sculpture, sound, computational image-making – I employ the visual culture of commercial technologies as a core vocabulary, displacing them into an artistic context. Placing technologies in unconventional and absurd relationships to one another, I aim to create a fissure in their conventional functions, reflecting on their roles as contemporary prosthetics with which we co-exist in a hybrid ecology. My research and creation processes involve a balance of qualitative and quantitative approaches. I am particularly interested in the interplay between the two seemingly polar-opposite, binary viewpoints, and strive towards a cross-pollination in which one feeds and complicates the other, and vice versa. By Adam Basanta

.ugb-b48ad63 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important}.ugb-b48ad63.ugb-blockquote > .ugb-inner-block{max-width:90% !important} Inflatables have had an important place in my work since 1989. In most of these sculptures and installations I have used industrial fans and simple valve mechanisms to animate sewn forms with lifelike gestures. Most of these works have been made of lightweight and papery fabrics such as Tyvek or nylon spinnaker. The weightlessness of these materials allows them to respond with surprising subtlety to the action of air within and around them. Generally inflatables are an expression of naive optimism. In an art context they signal popular culture, anti-art and irony. I play with and against these expectations. The movement of air within my forms recalls our own sensation of breath—of breathlessness, of holding our breath, etc. My work exists in moments of kinesthesia, when the movement of air within a form causes something to stir within the physical being of the viewer. This response is to more than just the obvious action of inflation and the robust occupation of space. What I feel is even more moving is the recognition of deflation, shrinking, vulnerability, silence and dying. My choice of extremely light and papery materials enhances this sense of absence and transience, of the nearly not there at all. Thus, the awakening comes more in our awareness of the tenuousness and fleeting nature of our existence. My work with the inflatable medium is about moving the viewer from a playful and ironic headspace toward a physical connection to his or her most vital forces. By Max Streicher

.ugb-a6eb3a6 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important}.ugb-a6eb3a6.ugb-blockquote > .ugb-inner-block{max-width:90% !important} I make art because I want to create life. My sculptures are oil-filled kinetic glass cylinders I call Sea Cores. The name and shape are loosely based on core samples scientist take to study the ocean, but I make no attempt to represent any known sea life. Instead, I invent my own inhabitants for these magical worlds. I choose glass as my medium because it allows me to manipulate the color and transparency of each individual creature. Since Sea Cores are designed to be looked through, rather than simply looked at, the transparent colors blend and form new colors from every vantage point. I focus on the movement of the air bubbles, and the patterns created by the bubbles as they weave through the glass and travel up the core. I plan the placement of each suspended creature in the bubble path to get subtle lifelike movement throughout the sculpture. This allows me to create living environments that generate the same excitement I felt as a child. By Alison Sigethy

How to write an artist statement

An artist statement is normally only a few sentences long. So you will have to convey your art and the intention behind it in a clear and concise way.

Following these steps may help you write your artist statement:

• Take a look at your most recent art pieces.
• Note all the similarities and try to find a general theme.
• Write a short description of your work without worrying about length.
• Go over what you wrote and distil is down to the essentials.
• Let some friends or colleagues critic your artist statement.

Keep in mind that an artist statement should not only be informative, but also interesting and intriguing. If your statement fails to rouse someone’s attention, you will have to go back to the drawing board. Make sure to sprinkle in a few action verbs and powerful adjectives to spice up your writing.

How long should an artist statement be?

As a general rule of thumb for artist statements: the shorter, the better. Your artist statement should be roughly 200 to 300 words long.

Examples of great artist bios

.ugb-e8cf920 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important}.ugb-e8cf920.ugb-blockquote > .ugb-inner-block{max-width:90% !important} Julie Mehretu’s work is about layers: the physical layering of images, marks, and mediums, and the figurative layering of time, space, place, and history. Working in a large scale, Mehretu draws on the 21st-century city for inspiration, transferring its energy into her gestural sweeps of paint and built-up marks in ink and pencil—often transposed from projections—and condensing seemingly infinite urban narratives, architectural views, and street plans into single unified compositions. “The narratives come together to create this overall picture that you see from the distance,” she says. “As you come close to it […] the big picture completely shatters and there are these numerous small narratives happening.” Mehretu layers a range of influences and art historical references as well, from the dynamism espoused by the  Futurists , to the scale and physicality of  Abstract Expressionism , to the divergent markmaking of  Albrecht Dürer , Eastern calligraphy, and graffiti. Mehretu was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship in 2005. By Julie Mehretu

.ugb-abeda64 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important}.ugb-abeda64.ugb-blockquote > .ugb-inner-block{max-width:90% !important} In her decades-spanning practice, Carol Rama has explored sexuality and desire through different materials and mediums. Self-taught, Rama began painting as a means of dealing with family tragedies. In her early work in the 1930s and 1940s, she created lustful images of the female body, highlighting sexuality and pleasure as major themes. Rama later experimented with abstraction and assemblage in the vein of arte povera, using bicycle tires from her father’s factory before he declared bankruptcy and committed suicide. She returned to making paintings and watercolors in the 1980s. The recipient of the Golden Lion at the 50th Venice Biennale, Rama falls outside the confines of any particular artistic movement or period, but she remains a seminal figure and an important influence to artists such as  Cindy Sherman  and Kiki Smith. By Carol Rama

.ugb-9bd14c2 .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important}.ugb-9bd14c2.ugb-blockquote > .ugb-inner-block{max-width:90% !important} Los Angeles based photographer, Mallory Morrison, has been honing her skills in underwater photography for the past several years. Originally a dance photographer, Mallory blended her photography skills with her twenty-four years of dance experience, bringing about a perfect marriage of her two passions.   Mallory’s evolution into underwater photography allowed her to introduce another element to this union and extend the range of her talent even further. Her use of dancers in an underwater environment allows Mallory to challenge the boundaries of people photography – utilizing weightlessness to tell stories, which explore the depths of movement and composition. ​ Mallory has sold her fine artwork to collectors across the U.S. as well as Australia, South Africa, Germany, Switzerland, Canada, Mexico, and Belgium.  She was included in Saatchi’s Art’s 100 Voices 100 Artists catalog, celebrating their Top Women Artists. By Mallory Morrison

.ugb-d877ffb .ugb-blockquote__quote{width:70px !important;height:70px !important}.ugb-d877ffb.ugb-blockquote > .ugb-inner-block{max-width:90% !important} A pioneer of the Japanese Mono-ha (School of Things) movement, Lee Ufan arranges his installations and sculptures to emphasize the equal relationship between the artwork, the viewer, and the space, a philosophy best illustrated by his “Relatum” series, a series of stretched canvases on the floor, each topped by a single stone. Ufan uses materials including glass, steel, rubber, and stones in shades that are usually subdued and often monochromatic. His paintings exhibit a similar logic, applying muted color on a light, plain background in a style reminiscent of East Asian calligraphy, whereby the brush stroke fades as it ends. By Lee Ufan

How to write an artist bio

When writing an artist bio, it can be tempting to include your entire life story. But you won’t be doing yourself any favors.

Just like the artist statement, you want your bio to be short and concise. So include all the important moments that shaped your artistic career, but don’t mention irrelevant details such as your high school.

The following tips might help you write an artist bio:

• Include your art mediums, art style, and techniques.
• Mention your education and teachers.
• Highlight your awards or achievements.
• Explain what you want to achieve with your art.
• Keep it short (<300 words).
• Find someone to proofread your bio.

How to make an artist website

A step-by-step guide to how to build an artist website and promote your work online.

Before you start

• Choose a website builder
• Choose your hosting
• Design your site
• Choosing a template
• Edit your template

Register a domain name

• Selling online

Publish your site

Learning how to make an artist website is essential if you want to display your work online in a professional way but don't have the resources to hire a web designer. A website isn't the only option for promoting and selling art online, but it's the way that gives you most control, and it looks more professional than relying on social media alone.

In the guide below, we'll walk step-by-step through how to create a website for artists, from choosing the best website builder for artists to picking from among the best web hosting for freelancers . We'll also look at what to consider when designing your site, what to include, how to add ecommerce functions so you can sell your work and how to promote your site.

Before you get started, it's worth thinking about why exactly you want to create a website for art. It might seem obvious, but defining a clear objective can help you decide what you need from the site.

You might want a website to serve as an online portfolio to promote your work to potential clients, in which case the focus will be on showcasing your work. Or you might want to sell physical or digital work directly through the site, which will require ecommerce tools if you want to provide a checkout and direct payment options.

A website isn't the only option in either case. We have a guide to the best places to sell design online , and you can even sell on Instagram . Other options may have the advantage of a lower initial cost in terms of time and money and a chance to reach a existing audience. 

However, if you're presenting contact details to a prospective client, a personalised URL will often look more serious than an Instagram handle or a portfolio on a branded site. You also get to present your work the way you want, without being constrained by the layout and specifications of a platform with a rigid UI. Just bear in mind that creating a website for art is only part of the work because people aren't magically going to find it, so you will need work to promote your site.

Choosing a website builder for an artist website

To make an artist website, you'll need a content management system (CMS). For convenience, many websites for artists today are created using website builders. There are lots of options, and the best one for you will depend on whether you have skills in web design or coding (or want to learn), how much control you want over what your site looks like and how big your budget is.

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Many of the most popular website builders for artists eliminate the need to know anything about html or CSS by proving customisable templates to choose from and a simple drag and drop interface. Wix is popular for its low prices, while we think Squarespace is aesthetically better for visual art thanks to its clean, minimalist templates. There's also Jimdo , which we found easy to use.

Both Wix and Squarespace have several plans, which makes them highly scalable, giving you the flexibility to start on a the cheapest plan and move up if you decide you want to add things like a checkout later.

You could also save on paying for a website builder by opting for an open-source CMS like Wordpress . This is free and it gives you more flexibility. It's not overly complicated either, but it's a much steeper learning curve initially, it's more time-consuming, and you'll still need to pay for hosting, which is often included in website builders' plans. That takes us to the next step...

Choosing hosting for your artist website

Most website builders also provide hosting, but if yours doesn't, or if you choose to design your site from scratch, you'll need to choose your hosting. This is where you store all the data that makes up your website, including its code, text, images and video, so that anyone with a web connection anywhere in the world can view it and interact with it.

In the early days of the internet, you could host this stuff on your own computer. But these days, with billions using the web, that's not a viable option. Hosting companies use their large arrays of powerful computer hardware, commonly known as 'server farms', to store it for you.

There are several types of web hosting, but websites for artists most often use shared hosting because it's the cheapest and it does the job for small low-traffic sites. With shared hosting, your site is stored on the same server as many other sites, which allows economies of scale. However, it might not allow enough bandwidth if you're building a large and complex website with high traffic, and the fact that your site is on a single server can present a risk of down time if that server is down for some reason.

Another option is VPS hosting, which provides more bandwidth, potentially allowing your site to load more quickly. The next option up is cloud hosting, which spreads your website data across different servers, usually around the world, increasing security and reducing the risk of your site being offline if a server is down. This is worth considering if you have a large art business and need to be sure that your site will be online at all times. There is also dedicated and managed hosting, but this would be an unnecessary expense for most artist websites.

How to design an artist website

Once you've chosen a website builder and hosting for your artist website, you can get down to actually designing your site. The process will vary depending on the builder you choose. Some website builders now have AI web building tools, which aims to make the process more quick and easy than ever. You simply answer some questions about your work and what functions you want on the site, upload some images, and, in theory, you could have a website in a matter of minutes. 

Alas, the reality is that, like with many things that involve AI, the results often aren't very good. If you just want to get a site online as quick as possible, it's worth giving it a go. You'll probably have to ask the AI to try again several times, and you'll definitely want to change any text descriptions that it proposes. But if you find the AI is just turning out generic designs that have nothing to do with your answers, it could easily become more time-consuming than just going the old-fashioned root and picking a template yourself, which also gives you more flexibility.

Choosing a template for an artists website

If the AI option isn't cutting it, then it's best to give it the shove and opt to choose a template instead. This allows you to pick the look you want from your site from a wide range of options, which you'll normally be able to customise to your liking.

There's no right or wrong type of template to go for, but many artist opt for a minimalist approach to let their work do the talking. You'll probably want a template that provides plenty of space for images, but the structure will depend on how much work you want to show, at what size, and how much you want to say about it. 

If you have lots of work and want to showcase your versatility, you could go for a template with lots of images blocks at the same size. If you prefer to focus on key pieces, you might prefer a template that uses fewer large images with lots of space around them so the work stands out. You could also seek out a template that allows for a mix, with a large main image and the option to add smaller images below or in a dedicated gallery or portfolio page within the site.

You'll want to choose a look that reflects the character of your work. A minimalist design with lots of empty space can look more elegant and allow your work to do the talking. It can also be more usable for visitors, who will be able to easily find their way around. Some artists prefer an asymmetrical structure, which might stand out if it looks novel and different.

It's often best to have an idea of what you want your website to look like before you start browsing. Take a look around the internet. Look at the sites of artists you know and admire and check out our own pick of the best design portfolios for inspiration. Starting with at least a general idea of the style you want can help prevent you from getting distracted by all the options, which can be overwhelming.

Editing a template for an artist website

Whichever template you choose, you should be able to edit it to make it more closely suit your needs. You'll be able to add or remove elements and sections and add and organise the pages and menu if you want more than one page on your site. You'll normally be able to change the fonts and colour palette and choose apps to add things like social media icons.

The main ways to display images and other projects are portfolio pages, gallery sections, and image blocks. Portfolio pages display sets of content in two-tier structure: the landing page and projects. You an add gallery sections to display a set of images on a page, and you can usually change their layouts and add image descriptions and clickthrough links as desired. Image blocks are used to add single images in different layouts. These won't automatically display in a cohesive layout like a gallery section, but you can arrange them into columns and rows.

Remember to consider how your site will look on mobile as well as desktop. Many website builders will allow you to easily switch between desktop and mobile view and to make specific changes to how the site looks on mobile specifically.

Some website builders have limited free plans, but they usually include a web address with their own branding in it, such as wix.com/myartistwebsite. It's an option if budget is tight, but for a more professional-looking presentation, you'll need to register a domain name, and that has a monthly or annual cost. 

If you're not out to claim a domain name that's already owned by someone, this can seem unfair, but what you're paying for is for someone to rout the domain name to the right server. Your hosting company/website builder will probably give you the option to register a domain through them, which is often the easiest way, but you can also register a domain via a different company. 

Choose a domain name that's as simple, memorable and relevant as possible. A good domain name is easy to say and understand when read out loud, so try to avoid using symbols or other elements that could be confused. Most often, you'll want to use your own name or brand, but you might need to get creative if the name is already being used. Registering a domain name will be more expensive if someone has already registered it in the hope of making a profit if someone wants to use it (this is known as domain name squatting), so it can be worth checking the cost of different names.

Selling art on your website

If you used a website builder, you will probably have been asked at the outset if you wanted to add a store, in which case, you will automatically be taken through the process of choosing payment options and adding shipping and a checkout. You'll often need to pay for a premium plan to make these choices live. This is an advantage of going with a webside builder with scalable plans, since you can always choose to add this later.

When setting your ecommerce options, you'll need to decide what payment methods to accept. This could be cash or bank transfer. Customers often like the convenience of paying by card, which will usually require a payment provider like Paypal. If your web builder doesn't offer an ecommerce function of its own, you may be able to connect a platform like Shopify , which also has its own website builder.

If you don't want to sell directly through your site, but you want to sell services on a project-by-project basis, you could add a form block to your site to capture potential leads. You could also set up an invoicing panel allowing you to send invoices to the client once a project is running. Forms can also be used to capture visitor info to help with marketing later: you can invite people to sign up for an email list or newsletter, for example.

Once you're happy with the design and functionality of your site, you'll be able to preview and publish. Remember to preview on both mobile and desktop. Once you publish, that's it. Congratulations, your artist website is live. 

The bad news is that this is only the start if you want people to know your site exists and to find it. To get started, make some noise to let people know you've launched your site: make posts on social media and tell existing clients. Add a link to your site in your profile on any platforms you're already active on, and put the site on your business cards or flyers if you have physical collaterals.

You'll also want to make sure your site is optimised for search engines. There are lots of things that can play a role here, but you'll want to at least make sure you've added meta tags and keywords for relevant topics that potential customers might look for. Most website builders will have their own SEO metrics that can provide guidance.

Ensure your site title, SEO titles, page titles, blog post titles and headings are clear and user-friendly. While you'll want to keep navigation titles concise, SEO titles can be made longer, giving space to include keywords. Use keywords in headings, but don't use the same text for more than one heading, and use heading sizes consistently across your site. Adding alt text to images can help Google understand what they depict while making your site more accessible. 

Also ensure SSL. Some search engines penalise sites that don't have this security feature. providing a secure connection. SSL-enabled site addresses begin with https rather than http. You can check your site's performance with Google Search Console.

What should I include on my artist website?

Whether you're seeking to attract potential buyers, clients or employers, the most important thing to include in your artist website is a portfolio of your work. That doesn't mean you need to include everything. Focus only on your best work because a portfolio with just five excellent pieces will usually make more of an impression than if those same five pieces are mixed in with less impactful work.

Aside from this, you'll probably want to include an 'About me' page with a brief biography so people know who you are.  You don't necessarily have to detail your whole CV and background but at least a few highlights and a bit of personality. Mention what makes your art different. You might also want to include a list of clients or awards you have received. You'll also want to include contact details so that people can get in touch and links to your social media accounts so people can follow you and see more of your work there.

How much work should I include on my artist's website

As mentioned above, I'd recommend only including your best work if you're using the site as an online portfolio. It can be tempting to throw in everything you've ever done to make yourself look more prolific, but most people aren't going to have the time and patience to scroll through a huge amount of material, and the inclusion of less outstanding pieces can reduce the overall impact.

This means you have to be ruthless, and pare it down your work to a minimum (unless you genuinely think all of your work is showstopping). But also bear in mind that if you're done work for well-known clients, their names may also carry some weight. 

Another thing to bear in mind is consistency. Sometimes an artist might want to show versatility, but clients will often be attracted to a specific style. If you have worked in several different styles, consider separating these into different sections so that each part of your portfolio looks consistent rather than a mix of random work. Also think about what kind of work you actually like doing and would like to be commissioned for in the future and include this in your portfolio (and avoid showing any kinds of work you don't want to do). 

This might be different if you want to sell work directly through your site, but  in this case I'd still think about what work is most likely to sell and include less rather than more initially. You can always add more at a later date if things take off.

How can I protect the work on my artist website?

Some artists have concerns that if they upload their work to their website, people will be able to steal it, pass it and pass it off as their own or use it to train AI. Some people add watermarks in the form of a semi-transparent text or a logo, but there are now tools that can remove some watermarks quite easily, and making your watermark larger and more complex probably isn't going to look great for showcasing your work.

A less drastic option is to upload your art at relatively small file sizes. The resolution needs to be good enough for your work to look good on a screen, but that doesn't need to be at maximum quality. Lowering the resolution might not prevent the possibility of someone using your work on social media, but it should at least make it less usable for print without someone having to go to the trouble of upscaling it. Using smaller image sizes also has the advantage of faster loading times for your site, which can also benefit SEO.

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Joe is a regular freelance journalist and editor at Creative Bloq. He writes news, features and buying guides and keeps track of the best equipment and software for creatives, from video editing programs to monitors and accessories. A veteran news writer and photographer, he now works as a project manager at the London and Buenos Aires-based design, production and branding agency Hermana Creatives. There he manages a team of designers, photographers and video editors who specialise in producing visual content and design assets for the hospitality sector. He also dances Argentine tango.

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• Share full article

How an Instagram-Perfect Life in the Hamptons Ended in Tragedy

Candice and Brandon Miller showed the public a world of glittering parties and vacations. The money to sustain it did not exist.

Candice and Brandon Miller. In photographs shared online, their lives were full of parties and luxurious vacations. Credit... Joe Schildhorn/BFA.com, via Shutterstock

Supported by

By Katherine Rosman

• Published Aug. 8, 2024 Updated Aug. 9, 2024

In the modern Gilded Age of New York, where Instagram is awash in unrestrained displays of wealth, Brandon and Candice Miller were royalty.

At their 10th wedding anniversary “Midsummer Night’s Dream” party, they celebrated with a few dozen friends in the backyard of their 5,500-square-foot vacation home in the Hamptons.

Beautiful women in gowns watched with their handsome husbands as the couple renewed their vows near a swimming pool strewn with peonies and rose petals beneath a canopy of lights.

It was a grand public display of their perfect life and marriage. Ms. Miller told a lifestyle blogger who wrote about the party that her husband’s speech “made me cry by the end with his authentic, raw emotion and romantic words.”

It all culminated in the kind of envy-inducing images anticipated by the roughly 80,000 followers of “Mama and Tata,” Ms. Miller’s popular Instagram feed, which featured a near-constant stream of photographs and videos of her glittering life.

The Midsummer Night party was in 2019. Five years later, the glamorous image that Ms. Miller cultivated and promoted has disappeared, replaced with heartbreak, anger and a mountain of once-secret debt.

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