how to write a good art personal statement

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Fine Art Personal Statement Guide

One of the most significant decisions of your adult life will be choosing where to go to university and what to study. Most of us have many and varied interests, as well as strong feelings about where’s best not only to nurture our interests but also to live while we’re doing it, so settling on a choice can be tough.

That said, you’re undoubtedly reading this because you’ve thought about what you’d like to study and maybe even concluded it will be Fine Art. Congratulations!

Once you’ve worked out where you’d like to pursue this, the next step is applying, and your personal statement is one of the most important parts of this . It’s a challenge to write because it has to cover a lot of ground in a small space, but the trick is to approach it methodically and to tackle it systematically.

This guide will help you to achieve this by taking you through the following steps, so you end up with a compelling and informative personal statement:

• Why are Personal Statements Important?
• What Should I Include in a Fine Art Personal Statement?  
• What Should I Avoid in a Fine Art   Personal Statement ?  
• Advice on How to Start a Fine Art Personal Statement
• Advice on How to Finish a Fine Art Personal Statement

What Should I Avoid in a Fine Art Personal Statement ?  

Don’t begin your statement with a sweeping comment about art’s universality, or with a quotation from an artist or critic. This sort of opening adds nothing and, in fact, negatively impacts how you come across as a potential student. Equally detrimental are any clichés about you and art, overly informal language, and dramatic statements of any sort .

You should also avoid including irrelevancies, both curricular and extracurricular, and anything too personal – this isn’t an autobiography. Remember to stay close to the subject and to express your passion for Fine Art as simply and directly as you can.

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Advice on How to Start a Fine Art Personal Statement  

To make your statement as effective as possible, you should open it by setting out your interest in art and why you’d like to study Fine Art at university.

Clarity is key, so don’t over-complicate matters; it’s enough just to be honest and straightforward about your reasons. That said, originality and flair always make a statement more impactful, so consider how you can adopt a personal and unique angle that marks you out as different from all other applicants.

The first impression is a lasting impression, which means the reader is likely to draw some conclusions after reading the first paragraph. That means you should ensure your statement’s beginning achieves what it sets out to and that you’re happy with its portrayal of you.

Advice on How to Finish a Fine Art Personal Statement  

Finishing your Fine Art personal statement can, to some extent, reflect the finishing of your Fine Art degree. By the end of three years, you’re likely to have compiled a portfolio of pieces, have exhibited one or several at a final degree show, and have undertaken an extended piece of writing.

Your statement can mention how you’re looking forward to having amassed this critical work by the end of your time at university and talk about the skills you’ll have developed along the way. The statement’s conclusion should also unite your various lines of argument concerning interest, preparedness, and motivation , so the reader feels confident in choosing you as their next student.

• What are some Tips for Writing a Strong Fine Art Personal Statement?
• How Long Should my Fine Art Personal Statement Be?
• What Kind of Extracurricular Activities Should I Include in my Fine Art Personal Statement?
• How Can I Tailor my Fine Art Personal Statement to the Oxford Course?

As you’re applying to do a thoroughly practical course, albeit one underpinned by theory, it’s recommended you talk to some extent in your statement about work you’ve created, the skills that you’ve acquired through this, and their future application to your degree. It’s also a good idea to reflect on who and what your influences and inspirations are, as this will show your awareness of how your work is impacted by that of others. No one creates art in a vacuum, so don’t be afraid to share this.

Think about what makes your work unique and how it has evolved over time. You’re more than likely to have taken inspiration from different people and places at different times, so alluding to this evolution will show you to be analytical and reflective. It’s also a good idea to mention how you respond creatively in your own work to what you see and hear elsewhere, for example through museum and gallery visits.

Your personal statement will be limited, like everyone else’s, to 4000 characters (including spaces) or to 47 lines of the UCAS form, whichever you reach first. This might seem overly restrictive for such an important application, but remember that your application will comprise other elements too, and it’s good practice for later when you have to express your thoughts succinctly in essays.

There are some obvious extracurricular activities that all Fine Art applicants will include in their statements, such as visits to exhibitions, their own artistic endeavours, and wide reading around the subject. All of these are fine, and by all means put them in. However, if you can also add something a bit more unusual, for example you helped to date a painting through mass spectrometry, or assisted with the restoration of a medieval fresco, then that will help you to stand out in a unique way. Whatever you decide to include, ensure it has some direct relevance to the application as you can’t afford to waste words on content that won’t be valued by admissions tutors.

A strong academic record and incontestable interest in art go without saying, but you should also display a capacity for taking on large amounts of information and using it judiciously for your own ends, for working independently and in collaboration with others, and for extensive reflection on your own work.

Finally, being at ease with the theory as much as the practice of art is paramount as you’ll be expected to use the one to inform the other as you progress through the course.

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Personal statement advice: art and design

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What art and design tutors are looking for

The underlying message is that tutors want to know about you, your practice, your inspirations, and your aspirations, and for your personal statement to act as written accompaniment to your portfolio and performance at interview.

How to make your art and design statement stand out

Admissions tutors prefer to read personal statements that don't stick to a predictable formula – here are a few tactics to ensure yours packs a punch.

• Focus on the course: Martin Conreen, design admissions tutor at Goldsmiths, University of London, urges applicants for design courses 'not to over mention art' but to stay focused on design. He also feels some applicants waste too much space on non-relevant factors like their sporting achievements.
• Your influences: Martin adds he wants to hear who your influences are, why they inspire you, and 'how their work has resonance with your own, or with your own ideas'.
• Examples of what inspires you: David Baldry, fine art course leader at University Campus Suffolk, echoes this: 'Tell us what inspires you. We want to know what contemporary art interests you, so talk about key artists or an exhibition that made an impression on you. We want to know how you respond to the world creatively, so talk about your experiences or projects you’ve developed independently. Also, edit it so it sounds punchy'.
• Demonstrate your artistic ambitions: Alison Jones, fine art admissions tutor at Goldsmiths, is looking for 'interesting individuals who have a passion for art and a commitment to developing themselves as artists. Therefore, your personal statement should demonstrate an understanding of your own work, focusing on what is unique about your practice'.
• Be original: starting your statement with a well-known quote – such as 'fashion is not something that exists in dresses only' – is inadvisable. 189 applicants quoted that exact Coco Chanel snippet last year, so it really won't make you stand out from the crowd.

It's all summed up nicely by Arts University Bournemouth whose advice is:

'Be focused on the field you're applying for (no scattergun approach), name artists or designers you admire, think contemporary, reflect on exhibitions or galleries or events you've visited, and don't think "I'll tell them at the interview" – put it in the statement!'

Find out more about studying art and design, including entry requirements, why you should study it, and possible careers it could lead on to.  

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Crafting Artistic Statements: 10 Powerful Examples & Guide

If you’ve been dreading writing your artist statement, you’re not alone. Although you love working on your artwork , coming up with an artist statement isn’t always easy.

But don’t fear! I’ll share some examples of famous artist statements here. Plus, I’ll walk you through how to write your own artist statement, what to include, and what to skip. 

So, let’s get started!

10 Excellent Artist Statement Examples

Here are ten great artist statement examples you can use for inspiration! Looking at good artist statements can help you decide what to include in your own. But don’t feel like you should copy a sample artist statement – remember to make it unique and personal! 

1. Wassily Kandinsky

“I let myself go. I thought little of the houses and trees, but applied color stripes and spots to the canvas… Within me sounded the memory of the early evening in Moscow – before my eyes were the strong, color-saturated scale of the Munich light and atmosphere, which thundered deeply in the shadows.”

2. Gustav Klimt

“I have never painted a self-portrait. I am less interested in myself as a subject for a painting than I am in other people, above all women… There is nothing special about me. I am a painter who paints day after day from morning to night… Whoever wants to know something about me… ought to look carefully at my pictures.”

3. Mark Rothko

“I’m not interested in relationships of color or form or anything else. I’m interested only in expressing basic human emotions – tragedy, ecstasy, doom, and so on – and the fact that lots of people break down and cry when confronted with my pictures shows that I communicate those basic human emotions… The people who weep before my pictures are having the same religion I had when I painted them.”

4. Edvard Munch

“I was walking along a path with two friends – the sun was setting – suddenly the sky turned blood red – I paused, feeling exhausted, and leaned on the fence – there were blood and tongues of fire above the blue-black fjord and the city – my friends walked on, and I stood there trembling with anxiety – and I sensed an infinite scream passing through nature.”

5. Pablo Picasso

“I have never made trials or experiments. Whenever I had something to say, I have said it in the manner in which it needed to be said… I can hardly understand the importance given to the word “research” in connection with the modern painting. In my opinion to search means nothing in painting. To find is the thing.”

6. Jackson Pollock

“I want to express my feelings rather than illustrate them. It doesn’t matter how the paint is put on, as long as something is said. On the floor, I am more at ease. I feel nearer, more part of the painting, since this way I can walk around it, work from the four sides and literally be in the painting. When I’m painting, I’m not aware of what I’m doing. It’s only after a get-acquainted period that I see what I’ve been about. I’ve no fears about making changes for the painting has a life of its own.”

7. Nancy McIntyre

“What do I want to say with my art? Celebrate the human, the marks people make on the world. Treasure the local, the small-scale, the eccentric, the ordinary: whatever is made out of caring. Respect what people have built for themselves. Find the beauty in some battered old porch or cluttered, human-scale storefront, while it still stands.”

8. Duane Keiser

“My subject matter tends to be those fragmentary passages that reside within the mundane – the in-between spaces of our lives that we see but often do not notice. For me, these paintings are about the pleasure of seeing; of being cognizant of the world around me, and pushing to find an alchemy between the paint, my subject, and the moment. I view each piece as being part of a single, ongoing work.”

9. Charlene Fuhrman-Schulz

“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.”

10. Georgia O’Keeffe 

“I have but one desire as a painter – that is to paint what I see, as I see it, in my own way, without regard for the desires or taste of the professional dealer or the professional collector. I attribute what little success I have to this fact. I wouldn’t turn out stuff for order, and I couldn’t. It would stifle any creative ability I possess.”

What is an Artist Statement?

Every artist needs to write an artist statement at some point. But, what is it exactly?

An artist statement gives insight into the artist’s process and creative decisions. It can also explain the themes, ideas, and vision of the artist. You can think of it as an initial introduction to yourself and your work to give a great first impression!

Artist statements officially date back to the 1990s . But while they haven’t been around a long time, artists have always tried to define and explain their work. 

These statements can vary in length from a few sentences to a page or more. Each statement will differ, but you want yours to be memorable and easy to understand.

Most importantly, it should help people to understand your work.

Artist statements are used for many reasons. You may use yours when applying for grants, submitting a portfolio, or for PR and press mentions.  It can also appear on your website. 

So, it’s an essential document you’ll need to create. It’s key to growing your following and building a successful career as an artist. 

Writing an artist statement can also help you to get clear on your overall vision and values. You might need to spend some time reflecting on what your art means to you.

And yes, it does mean you’ll have to put down the paintbrush briefly. But with these tips, you’ll know exactly how to write your artist statement. 

Once it’s written, you can use the same statement again and again. If your artwork evolves over time, you may want to update it slightly. But you’ll have already done the hard work researching, planning, and writing it.

How to Write an Artist Statement

Writing an artist statement sounds daunting, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. 

Here are my simple steps for crafting an engaging and effective artist statement! These tips will take you from a bland statement to an amazing artist’s mission statement.

Use simple language

Don’t overcomplicate your statement or use very academic language. That can put people off reading it. Your statement must be powerful and accessible to everyone.

Use active voice and 1st person perspective

I always recommend using the active voice as it comes across as more confident and powerful. Avoid wishy-washy phrases like:

• I want to … in my work

Instead, switch it to active voice. Instantly, you’ll have a more interesting and captivating statement. 

Using 1st person perspective also ensures that your statement is clear and direct. 

Keep it short and sweet

You want to grab the reader’s attention and hold their interest. Avoid an artist statement that is several paragraphs (or pages!) long. A short artist statement is more powerful. So, it should be concise and to the point, without any filler. 

Condense what you want to say down into as little as possible without losing the meaning. Your artist statement should be short enough to quote! 

Ask yourself questions

Your statement allows you to provide a greater understanding of your creative choices. It can give a window into your thought process, so people can take more from your art.

But you need to ensure you include this information in your statement. Otherwise, you’re missing an opportunity. 

One effective method is to think about what people might want to know from you. What questions do you get asked in interviews?

Here are a few questions you could ask yourself:

• What do you want to achieve with your art?
• How do you create your artwork?
• What type of artist am I?
• How does the process, medium, or technique affect the work?
• What does the reader need to know to understand your artwork?
• What emotions do you want to invoke in the reader?
• Who has influenced you in your artistic career, and particularly in this work?
• Who or what are you addressing in this artwork?
• What else do you want your audience to know?
• How does this work relate to your other works?
• What is your art philosophy?
• How does your artwork fit into the history of art?

Don’t worry – you don’t have to answer all these questions in your statement. You can decide which ones make sense. Remember that short and sweet is better than long and dry – you want to get people interested in you!

Once you’ve identified what people want to know about you and your art, you can consider your responses. 

Do your research

A great way to get inspiration for your artist statement is by looking at other examples. You can read up on how the old masters or contemporary artists describe their work. 

Doing some research will help you understand how to structure your statement. It can also give you food for thought to delve deeper into the meanings of your artwork, too! 

If you’re still struggling, there are artist statement templates you can use to get you started. A template will help you build your statement’s structure so that you can concentrate on the details. 

Step away and come back later to edit

It’s easy to get caught up in the details and overthink something as important as an artist’s statement. This document is meaningful and may provoke lots of thoughts or emotions. 

If you find yourself writing and editing, again and again, take some time to step away. Any piece of writing benefits from a fresh eye. When you work on something for a long time, it’s easy to miss any minor details or mistakes.

I always recommend coming back another day to read through and make any final changes. 

The Wrap Up

Writing your artist statement doesn’t have to be a painstaking process. Now, you’ve had a look at some great artist statements. With these simple tips, you’re all set to craft your own statement now! 

Let me know if you have any questions in the comments below. Go ahead and share your artist statement once you’ve written it, too! 

Follow me on Pinterest for more tips, guides, and tutorials for creative professionals! 

Outmane is the founder of Proactive Creative. He is an artist/designer.

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Unique & Better Art Foundation Personal Statement Example

Table of Contents

When considering a career in the arts, it’s essential to have a well-crafted personal statement to show off your talent and passion. A strong personal statement can set you apart from other applicants and increase your chances of acceptance into your coveted art school. Creating a personal statement that stands out takes time and effort. But a well-written art foundation personal statement example can help organize your thoughts and get you on the right track.

This article will list practical tips to help you write a compelling personal statement and provide an example for inspiration.

What Is an Art Foundation Personal Statement?

An art foundation personal statement is a writing sample that demonstrates your creative and intellectual potential in the field of visual arts. Other personal statements focus on extracurricular experiences or academic achievements. But an art foundation personal statement highlights your aptitude for making and responding to artwork.

Besides showcasing your critical thinking skills and artistic inclinations, a successful statement reflects your interest in the particular program to which you are applying. As such, it is important to research each school’s curriculum before beginning work on your essay.

How to Write a Great Art Foundation Personal Statement

When writing an art foundation personal statement , be sure to keep the following in mind:

• Start by introducing yourself and your art practice. Write a brief description of your artistic inspirations.
• Outline why you’re interested in studying art foundation . Explain what you hope to gain from it and how it will help you achieve your artistic goals.
• Demonstrate your creative skills . Explain how they have developed over time through specific examples of past artwork or projects related to the art foundation studies field.
• Discuss any significant achievements or awards you may have earned related to your art practice. Mention any other noteworthy experiences or encounters that have influenced your work as an artist/designer.
• Finish with a strong statement about why you believe that an art foundation course is the right next step for you. Stress all of the reasons why attending this particular program is essential for achieving your future artistic aspirations.

Art Foundation Personal Statement Example

Here’s an art foundation personal statement example to use as inspiration when writing one for your own. This example has been generated by the amazing AI-powered Hey INK tool.

Art and Design Personal Statement Example

As long as I can remember, art has been a critical part of my life. From the crayon drawings that adorned our refrigerator to the elaborate paintings and sculptures that lined our home, art was always around me. It wasn’t until high school that I was first introduced to design principles. I had the first formal art class, where I truly began to appreciate creation in all its forms.

Since then, I’ve made it a point not just to consume but also to create artwork myself. Whether it’s through painting portraits or composing music compositions, photography or film-making, apparel design or architecture—I love diving into any creative endeavor headfirst. What excites me most about these mediums is how they’re constantly evolving and provide seemingly infinite possibilities for exploration.

One of the things that initially drew me towards studying graphic design specifically is how this field marries creativity with functionality. There’s something so inherently gratifying about solving problems through visual communication. To be able to take something from an idea in my mind and see it manifested physically on paper (or screen) is incredibly fulfilling. And being surrounded by like-minded people who share this passion makes San Francisco State feel like a home away from home.

With my background and passion for art, I feel well-equipped to study Fine Arts at the university level. Moreover, I believe that my skill set goes beyond mere artistic talent. I am confident that I possess key qualities such as creativity, dedication, and perseverance – qualities that are essential for any successful artist or designer.

A strong Art Foundation personal statement is the key to cracking your dream university. Those brave few who succeeded in getting into the prestigious institution of their choice have one thing in common: a stellar personal statement. Use the tips in this post and the personal statement example to write a compelling statement that secures a position in a competitive institution.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Artist Statement of Purpose Examples: Crafting Your Fine Art Personal Statement

Dirghayu Kaushik

19 August 2024

When it comes to pursuing a career in fine art, a well-crafted artist statement of purpose can be your ticket to success. Whether you’re applying for an MFA, BFA, or a position in the art world, your personal statement holds the key to showcasing your passion, creativity, and dedication.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into artist statement of purpose examples, helping you understand how to articulate your love for art effectively and create a compelling personal statement.

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• The Importance of a Personal Statement

Your personal statement, often interchangeably referred to as a statement of purpose (SOP), is your opportunity to tell your unique story as an artist. It allows admissions committees or potential employers to get to know you beyond your portfolio or resume.

Your personal statement should convey your artistic journey, influences, experiences, and future aspirations. It’s a chance to make a lasting impression and demonstrate why you are a perfect fit for your chosen fine art program or career in the art world.

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• Crafting a Captivating Introduction

Personal Statement

Your personal statement should begin with a captivating introduction that immediately grabs the reader’s attention. Think of it as the opening scene in a captivating movie. Here’s an example:

“Art has always been my muse, guiding my life’s path towards creative expression. From the moment I held a paintbrush, I knew that art was more than just colors on a canvas; it was a form of storytelling, a means to connect with the world and express the deepest facets of my being.”

Expressing Your Love for Fine Art

Your introduction should convey your deep-seated love for fine art. You can talk about when and how your passion for art first ignited. Maybe it was a childhood memory of visiting an art museum, or perhaps you had an inspiring art teacher who encouraged your creativity. Sharing this personal connection with art can draw readers into your narrative.

Defining Your Artistic Identity

In the introduction, you should also touch upon what makes your artistic identity unique. What sets you apart as an artist? Do you have a signature style, technique, or theme that defines your work? This is the time to provide a glimpse into what makes your art special.

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• Sharing Concrete Examples of Your Work and Experiences

Statement Examples

Once you’ve captured your reader’s attention with a compelling introduction, it’s time to delve into the heart of your personal statement by sharing concrete examples of your work and experiences. This section should showcase your artistic journey and demonstrate your dedication to your craft.

Highlighting Artistic Milestones

In this section, you can mention significant milestones in your artistic journey. These could include exhibitions, awards, or collaborations that have shaped your development as an artist. For instance:

“Over the years, I have had the privilege of showcasing my work in prestigious galleries and museums, such as the Tate Modern in London. These opportunities not only exposed my art to a wider audience but also pushed me to constantly evolve as an artist.”

By highlighting these achievements, you demonstrate your commitment to your art and your ability to thrive in the competitive art world.

Discussing Artistic Influences

Artists are often inspired by the work of others. Share the artists or artworks that have influenced your creative process. You might mention famous painters, sculptors, or contemporary artists whose work resonates with you. Explaining how these influences have shaped your artistic perspective can provide insight into your unique approach to art.

Detailing Your Educational Background

If you’ve pursued formal education in fine art, whether it’s an undergraduate degree, a BFA, or an MFA, this is the place to discuss it. Talk about your academic journey, the courses that had a profound impact on you, and any mentors who guided your artistic growth. Be sure to convey how your education has contributed to your development as an artist.

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• Exploring Specific Interests and Influences

Art and Design Personal Statement

Art is a vast and diverse field, and this section allows you to explore your specific interests and influences in greater detail. Whether you’re passionate about painting, sculpture, graphic design, or any other art form, here’s where you can delve into the heart of your creative focus.

Passion for a Specific Art Form

Share your deep-seated passion for your chosen art form. Explain why you are drawn to it and how it allows you to express yourself. For example:

“My fascination with seascapes and the fragility of nature has been a recurring theme in my work. It’s a subject that allows me to explore the vastness and immensity of the natural world while conveying its fragility.”

Artistic Inspirations

Discuss the artists or movements that have had a profound impact on your work within your chosen art form. Whether it’s the abstract expressionism of Jackson Pollock or the precision of Renaissance art, detailing these influences adds depth to your personal statement.

Your Creative Process

Take the reader on a journey through your creative process. How do you approach your work? Do you start with sketches, embrace spontaneity, or meticulously plan each piece? Sharing your process can provide insight into your artistic mindset.

• Articulating Your Goals and Aspirations

Fine Art Personal Statement

Your personal statement should not only reflect on your past but also look to the future. What are your artistic goals and aspirations? Where do you see yourself in the art world? This section allows you to articulate your vision and ambition as an artist.

Short-Term Goals

Discuss your immediate goals within the art world. Whether it’s participating in specific exhibitions, collaborating with fellow artists, or mastering a new technique, these short-term objectives reveal your drive and commitment.

Long-Term Aspirations

Take a broader view and share your long-term aspirations. Do you dream of curating your own gallery, teaching art to the next generation, or becoming an internationally recognized artist? Expressing these ambitions paints a vivid picture of your future in the art world.

Why This Program or Career?

If you’re applying to a specific program, be it an MFA or a job opportunity, explain why it’s the perfect fit for your artistic journey. Mention how the program’s curriculum, faculty, or mission align with your goals.

• Tailoring Your Statement for MFA and BFA Applications

MFA and BFA

Depending on whether you’re applying for a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program, there are specific elements to emphasize in your personal statement.

MFA Program Emphasis

For MFA applicants, emphasize your commitment to furthering your craft and the advanced level of artistry you bring to the table. Discuss your readiness for the intensive program and your eagerness to engage in critical discourse with fellow artists.

“Enrolling in the MFA program at [University Name] is a natural step in my journey to become a professional artist. I am ready to immerse myself in a community of dedicated artists, engage in rigorous critiques, and push the boundaries of my creative practice.”

BFA Program Emphasis

Similarly, BFA applicants should convey their passion and readiness to embark on their educational journey. Highlight your enthusiasm for learning and your willingness to explore various aspects of fine art.

“I am eager to embark on the BFA program, where I can continue to refine my graphic design and photography skills. This program’s focus on nurturing emerging artists aligns perfectly with my goals of honing my craft and exploring new artistic horizons.”

• Showcasing Your Love for Art History

Art History

For those with a passion for art history, your personal statement should reflect your deep love for the subject and your desire to explore its intricacies.

Unearthing Art Historical Insights

Share your favorite periods, artists, or art movements within the scope of art history. Discuss why you find these aspects particularly fascinating and how they have influenced your perspective.

“Art history has been my guiding light in understanding the evolution of artistic expression. I am particularly captivated by the Romantic period and its emphasis on emotion, individualism, and nature, as seen in the works of artists like Caspar David Friedrich.”

Academic Pursuits

If you’re applying for graduate studies in art history, discuss your academic interests and the areas of art history you wish to explore further. Mention any research projects, papers, or presentations that showcase your dedication to the field.

“ During my undergraduate studies, I delved into the complexities of American art history. My thesis on the impact of Abstract Expressionism on post-war American society was a testament to my commitment to scholarly pursuits in this field .”

• Conclusion: Crafting Your Artistic Narrative

Crafting a compelling artist statement of purpose is an art form in itself. By drawing inspiration from these examples and infusing your personal experiences, you can create a statement that reflects your passion for fine art.

Remember, your personal statement is your opportunity to shine and convey why you are a perfect fit for your chosen fine art program or career in the art world.

In closing, let your personal statement be a testament to your love for art and your unwavering commitment to the world of creativity. Use it as a canvas to paint your story, one brushstroke at a time, and let your passion shine through every word. Your artistic journey begins with your statement of purpose, so make it a masterpiece.

With this comprehensive guide, you now have the tools and inspiration to craft a personal statement that leaves a lasting impression and sets you on a path toward success in the world of fine art. Embrace your creativity, share your story, and let your love for art guide you on this incredible artistic journey.

What should I include in my artist statement of purpose?

Your statement should cover your artistic journey, influences, experiences, and future aspirations. Use concrete examples to illustrate your passion for fine art.

How long should my personal statement be?

Aim for a concise statement, typically around 500-800 words. Be sure to follow any specific word limit guidelines provided by the institution or program.

Can I use samples of my work in my statement?

Absolutely! Including images or descriptions of your work can add depth to your statement and showcase your artistic abilities.

Should I mention specific artists or artworks that inspire me?

Yes, mentioning artists or artworks that have influenced you can provide insight into your artistic perspective and passion.

How important is the artist statement in the application process?

Your personal statement is a crucial component of your application. It allows admissions committees to understand your unique voice, passion, and suitability for their program.

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Table of Contents

• • The Importance of a Personal Statement
• • Crafting a Captivating Introduction
• • Sharing Concrete Examples of Your Work and Experiences
• • Exploring Specific Interests and Influences
• • Articulating Your Goals and Aspirations
• • Tailoring Your Statement for MFA and BFA Applications
• • Showcasing Your Love for Art History
• • Conclusion: Crafting Your Artistic Narrative

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How to Write a Personal Statement for a Foundation Art Course

When applying for a foundation art course, writing a personal statement is an important part of your application. This statement is your opportunity to showcase your creativity and passion for art, as well as demonstrate why you are a suitable candidate for the course. Since foundation courses often lead on to University, this is a great opportunity to fine tune your personal statement writing skills, it can also help identify areas of art you may need more training in. 

In this post, we will provide 6 tips and guidelines on how to write a personal statement that will help you stand out and increase your chances of being accepted into a Foundation Art course.

6 tips for writing a personal statement - for an Art Foundation course

Understand the purpose of a personal statement, research the course and school, be specific, show your commitment to art.

• Be unique 

Proofread and edit

A personal statement is a written document that highlights your experiences, achievements, and goals - both academic and extra-curricular. It is a perfect opportunity for you to demonstrate to the course provider why you are a good fit for the program and how you will contribute to the school's artistic community. Your personal statement should be unique and reflect your personality and interests.

Ideally, your personal statement will be around 70% on why you would be a good student for the school to take on and why you want to study Foundation Art. The remaining 30% should focus on who you are and what you have done outside of school and academia, such as community art projects.

Before you start writing your personal statement, spend some time researching the Foundation Art course and the school you are applying to. It's easy for admissions staff to spot who has researched and who hasn't, so spend a healthy amount of time on this. 

Ensure you have a deep understanding of the course curriculum, the school's mission and values, and the type of students they are looking for. This information will help you tailor your personal statement and identify which of your achievements and qualifications will be best to mention in your personal statement. 

When writing your personal statement for a foundation art course, it's important to be specific and avoid generic phrases. Specifics will make you more memorable to the admissions committee and showcase your genuine passion for the subject.

To demonstrate your commitment to art, try to include specific examples of your experiences and achievements. For example, if you have taken art classes or workshops, discuss the specific techniques you learned and how they impacted your artistic style.

Highlighting your unique qualities and experiences will make your personal statement stand out and show the school why you would be a valuable student to have onboard. Additionally, you should consider including your portfolio and any awards or exhibitions you have participated to further demonstrate your dedication to art.

The school wants to see that you are committed to the subject and have a genuine passion for art. Be sure to show them how you have pursued your interests outside the classroom. For example, if you have a portfolio of your artwork, mention it and describe the process of creating your pieces. If you have won any art competitions or have been featured in any exhibitions, mention them as well. This will demonstrate your dedication and commitment to the subject and show the admissions team that you have a deep understanding and passion for art.

Your personal statement should be a reflection of who you are as an individual and an artist, as well as how you want to grow as an artist. Avoid using generic phrases or clichés, focus on showcasing your unique qualities and experiences. Use your specific skills to tell the school why you are the best candidate for an Art Foundation diploma. 

Being unique and genuine will make your personal statement stand out, making you more memorable to the school admissions team.

Read, read and read again. 

You may be thinking “this is an Art course, why is writing important” but not checking your work for spelling or grammar errors massively reflects on your attention to care, and this will be noticed by the admissions team. 

Before submitting your personal statement, spend some time proofreading and editing. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and make sure your statement is clear and concise. It's important to include relevant information, but try not to bore the reader. 

It's also a good idea to have a friend or family member read over it to get a second opinion. Your statement should be polished and professional, as it is a representation of your abilities as an artist and potential student.

Writing a personal statement for a Foundation Art course is an important aspect of the application process, and provides you valuable experience for the future. It provides the admissions committee with a glimpse into your passion and dedication to art, and allows you to showcase your unique qualities and experiences.

Remember, your personal statement should reflect who you are and where you want to go. It should showcase your passion and commitment for art and, if possible, include your real world artistic experiences.

A well-written personal statement can massively increase your chances of being accepted into the course of your choice and continue down the path towards your dream artistic career.

Writing a strong personal statement requires time and effort, but it is well worth it. Following our tips, will help you write a personal statement that stand-out, making you a competitive candidate for a Foundation Art course.

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How to write an artist statement

I like to think of the artist statement as the wedding toast of the art world. If you wing it, suddenly you’re on the spot in front of a crowd of expectant faces, trying to put into words a relationship (between you and your art) that you’ve always felt intuitively. We’ve all seen those toasts. They don’t go well.

But if you put time and energy into crafting your message beforehand, you’ll actually add to that crowd’s understanding of the significance of this event (your art) and help them feel all the feels more deeply.

I’ve been wrestling with my own artist statements for as long as I’ve been making art. And I must confess, it’s never a task I look upon with glee. This, despite the fact that I write about art for a living. But reading other people’s statements has taught me a lot about what works and what doesn’t, and how to reverse-engineer a killer toast: a clear, concise and compelling artist statement.

— Artist and writer Sarah Hotchkiss

First things first: What is an artist statement?

In the interest of clarity, let’s define “artist statement,” since I’ve already needlessly complicated things by introducing a wedding metaphor into the mix.

An artist statement is a not-too-long series of sentences that describe what you make and why you make it. It’s a stand-in for you, the artist, talking to someone about your work in a way that adds to their experience of viewing that work.

Here are a few things an artist statement is not: a manifesto, an art history lecture, a story about discovering art, short fiction, self-psychoanalysis, a string of adjectives, a grand theory of everything you’ve ever made, or a list of your career accomplishments.

You’ll be called upon to submit artist statements when you apply for residencies, grants, and sometimes, exhibition opportunities. I wrote my first substantial one when I applied to MFA programs. And here’s the secret: even though they can be hard to write, they’re immensely useful. It truly helps me understand my own practice to sit down every few months and translate this nonverbal solitary thing I spend countless hours on into words for a specific audience.

If you’re reading this guide and it’s not the night before an important application is due, you’re already in good shape. Artist statements take time, but they don’t have to be torture. If you can get into the habit of stepping back, evaluating your work, and writing a few sentences about it, you won’t have to start from scratch when you’re down to the wire.

The brainstorming phase

All that said, sitting down and writing clear, concise, and compelling sentences about your art is daunting. So don’t start with sentences. Ease your way into it with a writing exercise that feels exciting, or generative, or natural to you. A few suggestions:

Gather your art in one digital or physical space and really look at it. It’s possible you’ve been working on such a micro level you haven’t taken a macro view in a while. What commonalities and differences do you see? Think holistically about a specific body of art.

Write out a list of adjectives that describe your work. Use both visual and tonal descriptors. Be specific and avoid art jargon. If your art follows in the footsteps of minimalism, could you describe it as quiet? Or rhythmic? Is your work funny, raunchy, messy?

Record yourself describing your art to a friend, family member, or fellow artist. Chances are you’re making statements about your work all the time. Have a studio visit coming up? Record the conversation (with the other person’s permission), transcribe the audio, and mine it for pertinent details.

Think about the emotions and reactions you want your audience to come away with. An artist’s intent may have little bearing on an audience’s interpretation, but an artist statement is one of the few places you get to nudge that audience towards your desired result. Do they learn something from your art or make new connections between disparate subjects? Are you trying to make people feel agitated, joyful, incensed?

Write a casual letter to your best friend about what you’ve been up to in the studio. “Dear Laurie, today I spent five hours papier-mâché-ing a cardboard version of a hamster toy. It came out looking like a first-grader’s craft project, but that’s what I was going for. I think it’ll make you laugh.”

Jeopardy your practice. What are the questions you hope to answer in your work?

Artist statement basics

Suddenly, you have a bunch of words describing your art. Now you get to pick the best ones to fulfill the very basic elements of an artist statement: what, why, and (possibly) how.

What. Make sure to state what medium you work in (paintings, sculptures, installation, non-narrative video, durational performance, etc.). It’s amazing how many statements don’t include that basic fact.

Why. Try not to overthink this one. Look back at your brainstorms and your casual conversations. You make this work because you’re excited about it. What, exactly, are you excited about? Be confident: Your art shouldn’t “hope” or “try” to do something to the viewer, it should just do it. Here is where you can also bring up, without going too far into the art historical weeds, your influences and inspirations.

How. If you have a truly unique process that’s important to understand—or one that images can’t accurately convey—briefly describe how you make your work. (Please note: Collage is not a unique process and there’s no inventive way to describe it as such, even if you use the word “juxtapose.”)

Beyond fulfilling these basic “what, why, and how” requirements, an artist statement can be relayed in whatever tone and sentence structure feels best to you. (I encourage the use of full sentences, as fragments sound flighty.)

That’s it! Really!

Red flags, bad practices, and other traps to avoid

In my many years of reading artist statements (and gallery press releases), I’ve developed an ever-growing list of banned words and phrases. While these ways of writing may sound fancy, they’re actually empty. And using them makes a piece of writing look lazy and nonspecific. Artist statements are particularly susceptible to these traps because we write what we think people want to hear instead of what’s actually true to our work.

Your artist statement should feel like it’s written by you, the artist—not by a critical theorist or an art history professor or a dealer or a curator. The people reading it are looking for an enriched experience of your work and proof that you’ve put some thought into what you’re making. They want to hear your voice—not that of some formulaic art-jargon robot.

So, some things to avoid:

Extreme binaries. Is your work really “examining the strangeness of both interior and exterior spaces?” Is it “both casual and formal?” “Light and dark?” (Similarly, ask yourself, is your work truly “blurring the boundaries between text and subtext?”)

Lazy clichés. Only you make your artwork—so shouldn’t the words you use to describe it be unique and specific as well? If you find yourself using certain words as crutches, or as highfalutin stand-ins for hard-to-articulate ideas, I highly recommend creating your own “banned words” list and keeping it somewhere handy. Then, go back to your brainstorm notes and pick out words or phrases that feel concise, fresh, and truly related to your work.

“International Art English.” Chances are you’ve seen it, read it, and felt unsettled by it in press releases, wall labels, and other people’s artist statements. This muddled and imprecise language seeks to elevate what it describes through nonspecific word choices, invented “spaces” (the space of the real, the space of the dialectical), and complicated grammatical structures. For an in-depth analysis of this phenomenon, propagated most intensely by the art world announcement email service e-flux, please see this fantastic article in Triple Canopy .

False range. Does your practice “range from drawing to sculpture to video to artist books” or do you simply make “drawings, sculptures, videos, and artist books?” False range is a rampant and completely accepted form of writing these days, but the discerning reader will notice it and judge you for it. A false range creates a continuum between one thing and another when there is no actual continuum. Yes, your palette can “range from blues to reds” (color is a spectrum). But your influences cannot include “everything from Wanda Sykes’ stand-up to Tamagotchi pets to tinsel” (there is no middle point between Tamagotchi and tinsel).

Theory. My extremely wise friend and colleague Bean Gilsdorf, longtime art world advice-giver, says this best: “Art theory only has a place in an artist statement if it has a direct bearing on your day-to-day studio practice. Otherwise, skip it.”

You have a draft, now what?

You’ve brainstormed, you’ve answered the what and the why. You’ve avoided all of the above. But chances are you still have a lot of extra baggage in that statement, or it’s not striking quite the right tone, or you feel like it could be more fun to read. Now you get to edit, revise, tweak, trim, and whip that statement into shape.

Read your statement out loud. Trust me, this works. As you read, ask yourself: Is it accurate? Is it descriptive? Is it compelling? Is it me ? Could this statement just as easily be applied to someone else’s work? Make sure it’s specific to what you make—and provides a sense of who you are to the reader.

Look at your art while you reread. Remember, your artist statement should be current . You don’t need to sum up a wide-ranging practice from the beginning of your baby artist days to the present moment. It should reflect whatever images you’re providing alongside it. Put another way, your artist statement shouldn’t be so aspirational that you talk about making room-sized installations while your images are a few small-scale watercolors.

Work it into submission. Read aloud, edit. Read aloud, edit. Take a break (a day, a week), come back to it, read it aloud and ask the above questions again. Remember that this doesn’t have to represent your work forever and ever. Like the U.S. Constitution, an artist statement is a living document. You can update it as often as you like.

Shorter is better. Being economical with words proves you know what you’re doing, that you’re confident in your work, and that you don’t have to couch it in elaborate language to legitimize it. Your statement should be somewhere between 100 and 300 words in length. (This is an example of true range.)

Consider your audience

The tone that you strike in an artist statement for a local group show should probably be different from an artist statement you write for a $100,000 grant opportunity. Every time you start reworking your statement, remember to ask yourself who or what this particular piece of text is for. Write a basic statement that can serve as the foundation for all future artist statements, but make sure you revisit and reevaluate for each application, exhibition, and request.

In order to truly know how your artist statement will be received, and if it’s doing the work you want it to do, you need to have other people read it. I recommend finding a diverse audience of art friends and non-art friends, family, and mentors. This statement should be as legible as possible. Tell them to be brutally honest with you and listen to what they say.

Have a writer friend read your statement for typos. Have someone else read it for typos. Triple-check for typos!

And most importantly, give the people you ask for feedback enough time to read your statement and reply to you. Do not do this: “Hiiiii, this is due in an hour can you look it over for me pls thx bye!”

In summary…

As those who exercise say: no pain, no gain. Statements are hard to write, but they’re good for you. They can help someone gain a deeper understanding of your art, feel more connected to that art and, ultimately, value it. They can make or break an application. And they can help you put words to your practice, giving you the language to understand just what you’re doing and why it’s amazing.

Sarah Hotchkiss

Sarah Hotchkiss is an artist and writer in San Francisco. Since 2015, she’s been the visual arts editor for KQED, the Bay Area’s NPR and PBS affiliate, covering the local visual arts and film scene in online articles. Before wading into the earnest waters of public media, she worked as the communications director for the venerable San Francisco arts nonprofit Southern Exposure. And before that she wrote condition reports in a warehouse that stored Indiana Jones -level amounts of art. She holds an M.F.A. from California College of the Arts and a B.A. from Brown University. In addition to her own studio practice, she watches a lot of science fiction, which she reviews in a semi-regular publication called Sci-Fi Sundays .

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How to Write an Artist Statement

Last Updated: March 15, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Claire Wentzel . Claire Wentzel is an award-winning Artist and Strategic Creative Consultant. Her business, Red Rose Studios, is based in Las Vegas, Nevada, where she also serves on the Clark County Public Art Committee. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in mixed media participatory art, brand messaging, and building organizational culture. She earned her BA in Fine Art with Distinction from the University of Colorado-Boulder and completed a painting residency at the International School of Painting, Drawing, and Sculpture. Her chalk mural work has been featured in EdHat and I Madonnari Italian Street Painting Festival advertising. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 18 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 512,133 times.

A clear and intelligent artist’s statement will make you stand out from the crowd and will show people that you are a thoughtful and deliberate artist. Writing your statement can be a difficult process, but it is also an enormously valuable exercise as it can help you to achieve a greater understanding of yourself as an artist. Here is a helpful guide to steer you in the right direction.

Thinking It Through

• Ask yourself what you're doing. What does your art express? What makes your art unique?
• Ask yourself why you're doing it. What motivates you to create art? What emotions or ideas are you trying to convey? What does your art mean to you?
• Ask yourself how you're doing it. What do you draw inspiration from? What tools and materials do you use?
• Know that your artist statement will evolve over time as your work evolves and your own understanding of it changes as people respond to it.

• Jot down a key idea that informs your work in the center of a blank page. Then spend 15 minutes writing down any words, phrases, feelings, techniques etc. related to that idea.
• Free writing is another technique that can help get the creative juices going. Spend 5-10 minutes writing whatever pops into your head when you think about your art. You'll be amazed at what you come up with.

Piecing It Together

• Your statement should answer the most commonly asked questions about your art, not overwhelm readers with irrelevant facts and minute details. It's good to articulate your goal, but try to leave space for people to have the experience of your work with their own personal baggage.
• Brevity and efficiency of language are key. A good statement will leave your readers wanting more.

• Write in simple, straightforward, everyday language.
• Make "I" statements rather than "you" statements. Talk about what your art does for you, not what it's supposed to do for the viewers.
• Know your audience but remember that simpler is always better in this situation.

Applying the Finishing Touches

• Make sure your readers get it, that they understand what you want them to understand. When they don't, or you have to explain yourself, do a rewrite and eliminate the confusion.
• Keep in mind that you alone are the authority for what is true about your work, but feedback on clarity, tone and technical matters such as spelling and punctuation never hurts.

Sample Artist Statement

Community Q&A

• Avoid comparing yourself to other artists. It can seem presumptuous and you may not come out of the comparison favorably. Let the critic's decide who you're like. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Not all artists can write well. If you're in that category, think seriously about hiring a professional writer or editor, preferably one with an art background, to help you convey what you want your statement to convey in language that ordinary everyday people can understand. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

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Expert Interview

Thanks for reading our article! If you'd like to learn more about becoming an artist, check out our in-depth interview with Claire Wentzel .

• ↑ https://www.gyst-ink.com/artist-statement-guidelines
• ↑ https://www.artbusiness.com/artstate.html
• ↑ https://www.callforentry.org/how-to-write-an-artist-statement-stop-stalling-and-start-writing/
• ↑ https://theabundantartist.com/how-to-write-an-artists-statement-that-doesnt-suck/
• ↑ http://www.artbusiness.com/artstate.html

About This Article

If you need to write an artist statement, start with a personal description of why you decided to make your art, including your goals for your career as an artist. Then, talk a bit about your decision-making process behind your art, like your themes, materials, and techniques. Next, include some background about your current works of art, and talk about how they relate or differ from your previous works. Remember to limit your statement to 1-2 paragraphs, since it's supposed to be a brief introduction to your work. For advice on planning out your statement and exploring your personal story, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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10 Inspiring Examples and Expert Tips for Crafting A Powerful Artist Statement

Make your art speak volumes with this complete guide to crafting an artist statement, whether your medium is clay, paint, digital, or something in between.

Movies have trailers, books have blurbs and creative professionals have artist statements. An artist statement is a written explanation of an artist’s work, which can include their artistic process, influences and intentions. Artists use artist statements as a way to communicate their creative vision to the world. 

An effective artist’s statement is a communication tool between the artist and the audience, helping foster a deeper understanding of their work. The audience of an artist statement are usually viewers, curators and art critics.

Each artist statement is unique, yet some are strong and others fall short of addressing viewers’ pressing questions. Keep reading this article to learn how to write an outstanding artist statement and see how 10 other creatives from various disciplines have approached theirs. 

The Components of a Successful Artist Statement

A successful artist statement encompasses one or several components that give a glimpse into what the artist’s work is all about.

Personal connection

Striking a personal connection in an artist’s statement can be important because it allows viewers to establish an emotional or intellectual bond with the artist and their work. This personal touch can help viewers relate to the artist on a deeper level, fostering empathy and creating a stronger connection between the audience and the artwork.

How much personal information you include comes down to you, your audience, and whether it feels relevant to the body of work you are creating. It is better to err on the side of professionalism than to share about yourself in a way that doesn’t feel authentic. 

Medium of expression and techniques

Detailing the techniques utilized in the creation process can showcase the artist’s technical expertise and mastery of their craft. This can be particularly important for potential buyers, collectors, or curators who consider an artist’s technical proficiency when evaluating their work.

Themes and inspirations

Themes and inspirations help provide context for the artwork, allowing viewers to understand the underlying concepts and ideas explored by the artist. By sharing these influences, artists offer viewers a frame of reference to interpret their work and connect with the artistic narrative more deeply. 

Goals and intentions

When artists express their goals and intentions in their artist statement, it offers insights into the artist’s intended message, emotions, or concepts, helping viewers navigate the artwork’s layers of meaning. This insight fosters an appreciation of the artist’s intentions and enhances the viewer’s overall experience.

Ultimately, every artist statement is unique, and not all will include all four elements introduced here. The right combination depends on the conventions of your chosen medium and the ambitions you have for your work. 

For instance, artists hoping to receive grants or apply for artist residencies may choose to include more technical details and schooling, while artists seeking creative partnerships may provide a more abstract statement, such as the first artist in our list of examples, Yayoi Kusama.

10 Powerful Artist Statement Examples

Draw inspiration from real artist statements across multidisciplinary specialities from sculpture to mixed media and beyond. 

Example 1: Visual artist Yayoi Kusama

Artist statement:.

“My art originates from hallucinations only I can see. I translate the hallucinations and obsessional images that plague me into sculptures and paintings.”

What makes it effective:

This statement comes from Kusama, a famous Japanese artist known as “the princess of polka dots” who has voluntarily lived in a psychiatric hospital for the last four decades. Her artist statement is a glance into the mind of a “mad genius” artist. Kusama’s mental state being a part of her creative process adds another layer to her colorful avant-garde creations, many of which center around the theme of infinity. 

Example 2: Sculptor Antony Gormley

“I’m interested in the raw material of sculpture, the material that it is made from: the lived body. I’m interested in the body not as an image but as a place. It’s from that body that we have all our sensorial relations with the world. All our metaphors, of which sculpture is one, come from that basis.”

British sculptor Sir Antony Mark David Gormley positions the body as a physical place, comparing the physical body to clay. By doing this, the artist provides a frame of reference with which he views the world. Those drawn to metaphors and parallels would be enticed to view Gormley’s work after reading such a statement.

Example 3: Photographer Annie Leibovitz

“I don’t have two lives. This is one life, and the personal pictures and the assignment work are all part of it. Photography has always been a passion of mine, and I have been fortunate enough to pursue it as a career. My approach to photography has always been spontaneous. I’m interested in the moment, not the time it took to get there.”

In her artist statement, one of the most famous photographers in the world humbly makes her work more approachable. Notice how she doesn’t mention that she holds a BFA from the San Francisco Art Institute, but focuses instead on her passion and unrehearsed nature of her portraits, making the craft feel attainable to all.

Example 4: Painter Gerhard Richter

“For me, art is the restoration of order. It may discuss all sorts of terrible things, but there must be satisfaction at the end. A little bit of hunger, but also satisfaction.”

German visual artist Gerhard Richter dedicates his artist statement to what topics art should cover, as well as the emotional outcome art should evoke in the viewer. This sentiment provides a point of connection for others who are looking to get the same “hunger, but also satisfaction” out of their artistic experience.

Example 5: Mixed Media Artist Wangechi Mutu

“My work is a collection of a variety of resources, a collection of experiences. It’s about understanding history, understanding the power of history, the power of power, the power of beauty, the power of transformation, and the power of purpose.”

The artistic statement of Kenyan-born American visual artist Wangechi Mutu tackles power and hints at inequity, the tension between which is a major theme Mutu often broaches across media. The multitude of sources and narratives hint at a retelling of history, creating a sense of intrigue in the viewer and leaving them wanting more. 

Example 6: Visual artist Ai Weiwei

“In normal circumstances, I know it’s undesirable for an artist to be labeled a political activist or dissident. But I’ve overcome that barrier. The struggle is worthwhile if it provides new ways to communicate with people and society.”

What makes it effective: 

By calling himself a dissident, Weiei is appealing to others who want to challenge the status quo or feel that they don’t fit into society. In this way, Weiwei’s artist statement seeks to make a connection with other socially conscious viewers through the greater goal of promoting expression and communication.

Example 7: Visual Artist Andy Warhol  

“I just paint things I always thought were beautiful, things you use every day and never think about.”

Warhol’s artistic statement is as iconic as his art, giving the viewers an appreciation of everyday objects by portraying them in a new light. His artist statement invites people to look at their ordinary lives anew.

Example 8: Painter Pablo Picasso  

“I have never made trials or experiments. Whenever I had something to say, I have said it in the manner in which it needed to be said…I can hardly understand the importance given to the word “research” in connection with modern painting. In my opinion, searching means nothing in painting. To find is the thing.”

Picasso’s artistic statement provides a strong point of view about his method, which steers away from research and toward creative discovery. As a world renowned painter, it makes sense that he doesn’t spend time validating his methods to the audience.

Example 9: Sculptor Richard Long

“In the nature of things: Art about mobility, lightness and freedom. Simple creative acts of walking and marking about place, locality, time, distance and measurement. Works using raw materials and my human scale in the reality of landscapes.”

Known for his natural landscape installations, British artist Richard Long provides a surprisingly poetic artist statement that acts as a reflection of his creative style. 

Example 10: Painter Edward Hopper

“It’s to paint directly on the canvas without any funny business, as it were, and I use almost pure turpentine to start with, adding oil as I go along until the medium becomes pure oil. I use as little oil as I can possibly help, and that’s my method.”

Edward Hopper focuses entirely on describing his unique method in his artist statement, drawing attention to the unorthodox method of oil painting that is entirely his own.

Expert Tips for Crafting Your Own Artist Statement

It’s true that each artist’s statement is unique to the person behind the craft. However, following these basic guidelines will ensure that your artist statement is working hard for you by captivating the audience. An effective artist statement fulfills the purpose the artist intends, such as sparking intrigue, instilling confidence in their expertise, or creating a personal connection with the viewer.

Be authentic and personal

Let your unique voice and perspective shine through, allowing viewers to connect with your work on a deeper level. Share your personal experiences, emotions, and inspirations that drive your creative process. This authenticity enables viewers to not only appreciate the visual aspects of your work but also to engage with the underlying stories, concepts, and ideas that make your art truly remarkable.

Keep it concise and clear

Don’t forget to keep your statement concise and clear, avoiding unnecessary jargon or confusing language. The goal is to communicate your ideas in a straightforward way, allowing your message to resonate with your audience. Avoid overloading your statement with excessive details or tangents that may distract from your main points. Instead, focus on conveying the essence of your artistic vision and intentions. 

Connect with your audience

To enhance the connection with your audience, go beyond mere description and strive to connect with them on both emotional and intellectual levels through your artist statement. Create a bridge between your own journey and the viewer’s experiences, allowing them to relate and empathize with your work on a deeper, emotional level. By inviting the audience to actively engage with your artwork and its deeper meanings, you create a dynamic relationship that goes beyond the surface, fostering a profound and lasting impact.

Edit and revise regularly

Regularly editing and revising your artist statement is essential to refine its clarity and impact, ensuring that it accurately reflects your artistic vision. Treat your statement as a living document that evolves alongside your artistic practice. By regularly editing and revising your artist statement, you can align it with your evolving artistic practice and ensure that it remains a powerful tool for conveying your artistic vision to others.

Seek feedback from peers

Lastly, seek feedback from peers and fellow artists to gain fresh perspectives and refine your statement further. Their insights can help you strengthen your message and create a more compelling artist statement.

With these tools and inspirations at your disposal, you’re well-equipped to craft an outstanding artist statement that effectively communicates your creative vision to the world. 

If you’re still feeling stuck, think about what you would want to know about an artist you admire, and start there.

As the examples in this article illustrate, a strong artist statement plays a crucial role in fostering a deeper understanding of an artist’s work and establishing a connection with the audience. By striking a personal connection, detailing the medium and techniques used, sharing themes and inspirations, and expressing goals and intentions, artists can provide context, invite exploration, and enhance the viewer’s overall experience. 

Now that you’ve explored powerful artist statement examples and gained expert tips, it’s time to put them into practice. Remember that each artist statement is unique, so find the right combination of elements that align with your chosen medium and artistic ambitions. Embrace the process and let your artistic voice shine through.

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12 Powerful Artist Statement Examples and How to Write Your Own

In the  vast art world , your  unique voice and vision  are paramount. Drawing from my extensive journey through both creating and analyzing art, this guide delves into the nuances of  12 powerful artist statement examples . My goal is to arm you with  knowledge and tips  for crafting a  compelling artist statement  that forges a profound connection between your  artwork  and the  audience . Through a blend of  original research, analysis, and storytelling , I strive to ensure easy readability and provide  actionable advice .

What is an artist statement?

An  artist statement  serves as a pivotal channel to express the essence of your  creative process ,  subject matter , and the underlying  ideas  behind your  artwork , all in your own words. It acts as a  bridge , drawing viewers deeper into your artistic realm and offering insights that may not be immediately visible.

Consider the findings of a study published in  American Art Magazine , which indicated that  art descriptions  can enhance the viewer’s experience by up to  65% , particularly when the language used resonates with the emotional and intellectual curiosity of the reader. This highlights the significance of an artist statement not just as a formality but as a crucial element of  artistic communication .

Why Every Artist Needs One

An  effective artist statement  does more than describe; it opens a  dialogue  between the  artist  and the  audience , enriching the viewing experience and deepening the understanding of the art. It’s an indispensable component of your  art portfolio , playing a vital role in  galleries ,  press releases , and your  online presence .

Statistics from a survey conducted among gallery owners reveal that approximately  85%  view an artist’s statement as a determining factor in their decision to exhibit works. This underscores the statement’s importance not only for audience engagement but also for professional opportunities within the  art world .

Furthermore, in a digital age where art is frequently discovered online, a well-crafted artist statement can significantly enhance the visibility and comprehension of your work. According to research from the  University of the Arts London , artists with clear, engaging statements see an increase in online engagement and inquiries, underscoring the statement’s role in the  art business  and  art career  development.

Table 1: Impact of Artist Statements on Viewer Engagement and Opportunities

Impact Percentage

Viewer Engagement

Gallery Exhibition Odds

Online Engagement

Crafting Your Masterpiece: The Artist Statement

Crafting a compelling artist statement is akin to painting with words; it requires  precision, depth, and a splash of vulnerability . Herein, I’ll share the essential components that make up a powerful artist statement, drawing on extensive research, interviews with seasoned artists, and personal experience in the art world.

What Are the Ingredients of a Powerful Artist Statement?

A powerful artist statement should serve as a mirror to your soul, reflecting the very essence of your work and artistic journey. Here’s how to blend the key ingredients:

• Clarity and Depth : Balance is crucial. While your statement should delve deep into the  themes  and  ideas  driving your work, it must also be easily digestible. According to a study by the  Artists Association of the World  (AAW),  78%  of art viewers appreciate statements that make them feel enlightened rather than perplexed.
• Artistic Vision and Inspiration : Share the genesis of your work. What ignites your creativity? Whether it’s a  personal experience , a piece of  music , or a  social issue , let your reader see the world through your eyes.
• Accessible Language : The  University of Art and Design Helsinki  found that artist statements using  accessible language  were  three times more likely  to be read in full. An active voice engages the reader, making your narrative more lively and personal.
• Engagement and Connection : Your statement is a bridge to your audience. The  Global Art Market Report 2023  highlighted that artist statements that forge a  personal connection  see a  40%  higher engagement on online platforms.

How Can Storytelling Enhance Your Artist Statement?

Storytelling transforms your statement from a mere description into a captivating narrative. Here are ways to incorporate storytelling effectively:

• Share Your Journey : Discuss your evolution as an artist. A survey conducted by  Art Business Today  found that statements with a personal narrative saw a  50%  increase in viewer engagement at galleries.
• Emotional Resonance : According to  the Psychology of Aesthetics  journal, viewers are  60% more likely  to remember and form a bond with artwork if they feel an emotional connection to the artist’s story.
• Artistic Practice Insights : Give a glimpse into your process. Do you sketch in nature, or are you inspired by urban landscapes? This peek into your world can be incredibly intriguing.

Why are clarity and authenticity important in your artist statement?

Authenticity and clarity are the bedrock of a compelling artist statement. Here’s why they matter:

• Authenticity : Being true to yourself in your statement allows for genuine connections. The  Journal of Artistic Research  notes that authenticity in art communication can increase trust and interest among viewers by  80% .
• Avoid art jargon : While specialized terms might seem professional, they can alienate a wider audience. A study from  Art Journal Open  suggests that  jargon-free  statements significantly enhance accessibility and enjoyment for the general public.
• Conciseness : A concise statement ensures that your message is not lost in verbosity. Data from  Art Insights Magazine  reveals that the ideal artist statement length is  150–200 words , striking a perfect balance between informativeness and brevity.

Table 2: Effective Elements of an Artist Statement

Importance Percentage

Clarity and Depth

Emotional Connection

Authenticity

Jargon-Free Language

Highly Recommended

Length (Words)

12 Powerful Artist Statement Examples

Crafting an artist statement is a unique challenge that bridges the gap between visual language and written word, providing a profound insight into the heart of an artist’s work. This section delves into examples spanning from  the classics  to  contemporary voices , each illustrating the diverse ways artists convey their visions and the underlying themes of their work.

What Can We Learn from the Classics: Timeless Statements?

The Classics  offer a window into the soul of art history’s most revered figures, revealing how their statements have stood the test of time.

• Edvard Munch : Famous for his work  The Scream , Munch’s statements delve into his exploration of psychological themes and his philosophy of art as an expression of life’s truths. His approach highlights the importance of emotional depth and personal experience in art. According to a study published in the  Journal of Historical Art Studies , Munch’s artist statements have influenced over  60%  of expressionist artists in how they articulate their artistic visions.
• Frida  Kahlo’s artist statements often reflected her intense personal pains and the socio-political upheaval in Mexico. Her ability to intertwine personal narratives with broader cultural and political themes offers a powerful example of how artist statements can serve as a manifesto of personal and collective identity.

How Do Contemporary Voices: Modern Takes Shape the Art World?

Contemporary Voices  shed light on how modern artists navigate the complexities of today’s world through their art and statements.

• Ai Weiwei : As a contemporary artist and activist, Ai Weiwei’s statements serve as a profound commentary on freedom of expression, human rights, and the role of art in social change. His integration of social media into both his art and artist statements exemplifies how modern platforms can amplify the message, reaching a global audience. Research from the  Contemporary Art Review  suggests that Ai Weiwei’s online statements have sparked significant international dialogue on political issues, engaging millions of viewers worldwide.
• Olafur Eliasson : Known for his large-scale environmental installations, Eliasson uses his statements to discuss the interaction between people and their environments, highlighting the impact of climate change. His approach demonstrates the power of art in raising awareness and inciting action on global issues, with his works and statements cited in over  30%  of academic papers on art and environmental activism.

Why is a picture’s worth so important for visual artists?

Visual artists  face the challenge of distilling the essence of their visuals into compelling narratives.

• Annie Leibovitz : As a renowned photographer, Leibovitz’s artist statements often explore the stories behind her iconic portraits, offering insights into her creative process and the relationship between photographer and subject. Her ability to convey the emotional depth and narrative behind each shot emphasizes the storytelling power of photography.
• Yayoi Kusama : Kusama’s statements frequently articulate her fascination with the concept of infinity and her personal experiences with mental illness. Her immersive, large-scale installations and the accompanying artist statements invite viewers into her unique perspective, blending visual spectacle with deeply personal narrative.

How Do Performance Artists Use Their Bodies to Speak Through Their Art?

Performance art  stands out for its use of the artist’s body as the primary medium, creating a direct and powerful form of expression.

• Marina  Abramović’s artist statements often reflect on the limits of the body and the possibilities of the mind, themes central to her performances. Her work challenges viewers to engage with the concepts of presence and absence, endurance, and the artist-audience relationship. Her statements provide crucial context to her performances, many of which confront discomfort, pain, and the human experience, inviting viewers to partake in these explorations.
• Tania Bruguera : Bruguera integrates activism directly into her performance art, using her body to address political oppression and censorship. Her artist statements articulate her belief in the power of art to effect social change, offering a compelling example of how art and activism can intersect to provoke dialogue and action.

Step-by-Step: Writing Your Own Artist Statement

Crafting an artist statement is a crucial step for any artist, serving as a bridge between your work and your audience. It provides a glimpse into your world, your inspirations, and the meaning behind your creations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to writing an artist statement that resonates.

How Do You Get Started on Your Artist Statement?

Getting started  with your artist statement requires a deep dive into your creative psyche. Begin with  brainstorming  and  free writing  sessions to unleash your thoughts and ideas. This unfiltered exploration can reveal the core themes and motivations behind your art.

• Reflect on Your Artistic Journey : Consider the milestones and challenges you’ve faced along your path. According to a study in the  Journal of Creative Behavior , artists who connect their personal growth to their work create more engaging and relatable statements.
• Identify Themes and Messages : Pinpoint the recurring themes in your work. Whether it’s social commentary, personal exploration, or a fascination with certain aesthetics, understanding these elements is key to conveying your artistic intent.

What is the drafting process for an artist statement?

The  drafting process  is where your artist statement begins to take shape. Writing in the  first person  establishes a personal connection with your audience, making your statement feel more authentic and intimate.

• Organize Your Ideas : Structure your thoughts in a way that flows logically. Start with an introduction to your art, delve into the themes and inspirations, and conclude with what you hope to communicate to your audience. The use of  mind maps  or  bullet points  can be incredibly helpful at this stage, as recommended by a guide from the  University of the Arts .
• Use strong, active  verbs. Active voice brings energy and clarity to your writing. Instead of saying, “My art is influenced by,” you might say, “I draw inspiration from.” This directness makes your statement more powerful and easier to engage with.

How Can Revision Techniques Improve Your Artist Statement?

Revision techniques  are critical for refining your artist statement, ensuring clarity, and enhancing its impact. Embracing multiple drafts allows you to explore different ways of expressing your ideas, while feedback from others provides new perspectives.

• Embrace Multiple Drafts : Don’t be afraid to write several versions of your statement. Each revision can bring you closer to the most authentic and effective expression of your artistic vision.
• Seek constructive feedback : Sharing your drafts with peers, mentors, or even a writing coach can offer invaluable insights. According to research published in the  International Journal of Art & Design Education , feedback is crucial for artists to develop a reflective practice, aiding in the articulation of their artistic intentions.

How Do You Incorporate Feedback and Apply Final Touches?

Feedback and final touches  are about refining your artist statement until it accurately reflects your vision and resonates with your intended audience. Integrating feedback thoughtfully is key to enhancing the quality and authenticity of your statement.

• Selective Incorporation : While feedback is invaluable, it’s important to remain true to your vision. Assess each piece of advice carefully and apply changes that align with your artistic intent.
• Final Polish : Look for areas to simplify or clarify your language. A clear, concise statement is more accessible and impactful. Tools like  Grammarly  or the  Hemingway Editor  can help tighten your prose and ensure it’s engaging and free of jargon.

Table 3: Key Steps and Tips for Crafting an Artist Statement

Getting Started

Brainstorm, reflect on your journey, identify core themes

Drafting Process

Write in the first person, organize ideas coherently

Revision Techniques

Embrace multiple drafts, seek feedback

Feedback and Final Touches

Incorporate feedback selectively, apply final polish

How long should my artist statement be?

The length of your artist statement can significantly impact its effectiveness.  Best practices suggest aiming for a statement that is between 100 and 200 words . This concise approach ensures that you communicate the essence of your work and artistic practice without overwhelming the reader with unnecessary details. A study from the  Journal of Art and Design Education  found that shorter, more succinct statements had a  30% higher engagement rate  compared to longer ones. The key is to avoid academic language and technical jargon, making your statement accessible to a broader audience.

Can I Change My Artist Statement Over Time?

Yes, and you should.  Your artist statement is not a static document but a living reflection of your evolving art career. As you explore new directions, themes, and insights, your statement should adapt to reflect these changes. This evolution is a natural part of your creative journey and helps keep your audience engaged with your current work. According to a survey by  Arts Professional UK ,  80% of gallery visitors  found updated artist statements more engaging, as they offered fresh perspectives on the artist’s evolving body of work.

What if I work in multiple mediums?

Working in multiple mediums showcases your versatility as an artist, but it can also pose a challenge when crafting a unified artist statement. The key is to find the underlying themes or inspirations that tie your work together across different mediums. For example, if your paintings, sculptures, and digital art all explore themes of nature and human impact, your statement can reflect this overarching focus. This approach helps create a cohesive narrative about your work, regardless of the medium. A study published in the  International Journal of Art Therapy  highlighted that artists who successfully link their diverse mediums in their statements can enhance audience understanding and appreciation of their artistic breadth.

Crafting an artist statement is more than a formality; it’s a vital step in sharing your art with the world. This guide aims to equip you with the insights, examples, and practical tips needed to articulate your vision and deepen your engagement with your audience. Remember, a great artist statement acts as both a reflection of your current work and a bridge to your future endeavors in the art business. It’s an opportunity to not just showcase your artwork but to share the story and the person behind the brush, the camera, or the canvas. Let your statement be a mirror to your artistic soul, inviting viewers into your world and connecting with them on a profound level.

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By Nik Taylor (Editor, The Uni Guide) | 18 August 2023 | 22 min read

How to write an excellent personal statement in 10 steps

Stand out from the crowd: here's how to write a good personal statement that will get you noticed

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Your personal statement forms a core part of your university application, and the sooner you get going, the better you can make it. You may think that your personal statement won’t matter as much to unis as your grades and experience but a great personal statement could make all the difference between you and a candidate with the same grades. Sure, your application might not reach that deal breaker stage. But is it something you want to leave to chance?  Here we’ll take you through the process of planning, writing and checking a good personal statement, so you end up with something you can submit with confidence. And to make sure the advice we're giving you is sound, we’ve spoken to admissions staff at loads of UK universities to get their view. Look out for video interviews and advice on applying for specific subjects throughout this piece or watch our personal statement playlist on YouTube .

• Are you looking for personal statement examples? Check our library of hundreds of real personal statements, on The Student Room

Personal statement deadlines

You'll need to make sure you've got your personal statement written well in advance of your application deadline. Below are the main university application deadline dates for 2024 entry.

2024 entry deadlines

16 October 2023: Deadline for applications to Oxford and Cambridge universities, along with most medicine, dentistry, and veterinary courses.   31 January 2024: Deadline for applications to the majority of undergraduate courses. After this date, universities will start allocating places on these courses –   but you can still apply after the 31 January deadline , as this article explains . 30 June 2024:  Students who apply after this date will be entered into Clearing .

• Read more: Ucas deadlines and key application dates

What is a personal statement?

A personal statement is a central part of your Ucas application, where you explain why you’ve chosen a particular course and why you’ll be good at it. It's your chance to stand out against other candidates and hopefully get that all-important offer. You only write one personal statement which is then read by each university you apply to, so if you are applying for more than one subject (or it's a combined course) it's crucial that you include common themes or reference the overall skills needed for all subjects. Personal statements are especially important if you’re trying to get on a very competitive course, where you need to do anything you can to stand out to admissions tutors. Courteney Sheppard, senior customer experience manager at Ucas, advises that your personal statement is "the only part of the application that you have direct control over. Do lots of research to demonstrate your passion, curiosity and drive to pursue your chosen subject." There’s a limit on how much you can write: your personal statement can be up to 4,000 characters (including spaces) or 47 lines of 95 characters (including spaces); whichever is shorter. This may appear generous (read: long) but once you've got going you may find yourself having to edit heavily.

• Read more: teacher secrets for writing a great personal statement

1. Plan what you want to cover

The first thing you need to do is make a plan. Writing a personal statement off the top of your head is difficult. Start by making some notes, answering the following questions:

• What do you want to study?
• Why do you want to study it?
• What is there about you that shows you’re suited to studying this subject at university? Think about your personality, as well as your experiences.
• What are your other interests and skills?

These few points are going to form the spine of your personal statement, so write them in a way that makes sense to you. You might want to make a simple bulleted list or you might want to get all arty and use a mindmap. Whatever you choose, your aim is the same. You want to get it clear in your own head why a university should offer you a place on its course. Getting those details down isn't always easy, and some people find it helpful to make notes over time. You might try carrying a notebook with you or set up a memo on your phone. Whenever you think of something useful for your personal statement, jot it down. Inspiration sometimes comes more easily when you’re thinking about something else entirely. It might help to take a look at The Student Room for some sample personal statements by university and sample personal statements by subjects , to give you an idea of the kind of thing you want to include. 

• Read more: personal statement FAQs

2. Show off your experience

Some things are worth adding to your personal statement, some things are not. Firmly in the second camp are your qualifications. You don’t need to mention these as there’s a whole other section of your personal statement where you get to detail them very precisely. Don’t waste a single character going on about how great your GCSE grades are – it’s not what the admissions tutor wants to read. What they do want to see is: what have you done? OK, so you’ve got some good grades, but so do a lot of other applicants. What have you done that’s different, that shows you off as someone who really loves the subject you’re applying for? Spend some time thinking about all the experience you have in that subject. If you’re lucky, this might be direct work experience. That’s going to be particularly appropriate if you’re applying for one of the more vocational subjects such as medicine or journalism . But uni staff realise getting plum work experience placements is easier for some people than others, so cast your net wider when you’re thinking about what you’ve done. How about after-school clubs? Debating societies? Are you running a blog or vlog? What key skills and experience have you picked up elsewhere (eg from hobbies) that could be tied in with your course choice? Remember, you’re looking for experience that shows why you want to study your chosen subject. You’re not just writing an essay about what you're doing in your A-level syllabus. Use this checklist as a guide for what to include:

• Your interest in the course. Why do you want to spend three years studying this subject at university?
• What have you done outside school or college that demonstrates this interest? Think about things like fairs/exhibitions, public lectures or voluntary work that is relevant to your subject.
• Relevant work experience (essential for the likes of medicine, not required for non-vocational courses such as English )
• Skills and qualities required for that career if appropriate (medicine, nursing and law as obvious examples)
• Interest in your current studies – what particular topics have made an impression on you?
• Any other interests/hobbies/experiences you wish to mention that are relevant either to the subject or 'going to uni'. Don't just list your hobbies, you need to be very selective and state clearly what difference doing these things has made to you.
• Plans for a gap year if you’re deferring entry.

Read more: 6 steps you need to take to apply to university

3. Be bold about your achievements

Don't be bashful about your achievements; that’s not going to help you get into uni. It's time to unleash your inner Muhammed Ali and get all “I am the greatest” with your writing. Do keep it focused and accurate. Do keep your language professional. But don’t hide your qualities beneath a layer of false modesty. Your personal statement is a sell – you are selling yourself as a brilliant student and you need to show the reader why that is true. This doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and if you’re finding it difficult to write about how great you are it’s time to enlist some help. Round up a friend or two, a family member, a teacher, whoever and get them to write down your qualities. Getting someone else’s view here can help you get some perspective. Don’t be shy. You are selling your skills, your experience and your enthusiasm – make sure they all leap off the screen with the way you have described them.

• Read more: the ten biggest mistakes when writing your personal statement  

4. How to start your personal statement

Type your personal statement in a cloud-based word processing program, such as Google Docs or Microsoft Word and don’t copy and paste it into Ucas Hub until it’s finished.  One of the benefits of doing it this way is that you can run spell check easily. (Please note, though, that Word adds "curly" quotation marks and other characters (like é or ü) that won't show up on your Ucas form, so do proofread it on Ucas Hub before submitting it to ensure it is how you typed it.)  Another big benefit is that you'll always have a backup of what you've written. If you're being super careful, you could always save your statement in another place as well. Bear in mind that extra spaces (eg adding spaces to the beginnings of paragraphs as indentation) are removed on Ucas. In your first sentence, cut to the chase. Why do you want to do the course? Don’t waste any time rambling on about the daydreams you had when you were five. Just be clear and concise – describe in one line why this course is so important to you. Then, in the rest of your intro, go into more detail in demonstrating your enthusiasm for the course and explaining how you decided this is what you want to do for the next three or more years. However you choose to start your statement, just avoid the following hoary old chestnuts. These have been some of the most used lines in personal statements over the years – they are beyond cliche, so don’t even think about it.

• From a young age I have (always) been [interested in/fascinated by]…
• For as long as I can remember, I have…
• I am applying for this course because… 
• I have always been interested in… 
• Throughout my life I have always enjoyed… 
• Reflecting on my educational experiences… 
• [Subject] is a very challenging and demanding [career/profession/course]… 
• Academically, I have always been… 
• I have always wanted to pursue a career in… 
• I have always been passionate about…   

5. Focus your writing on why you've chosen that subject

So you’ve got your intro done – time to nail the rest of it. Bear in mind that you’ve got to be a little bit careful when following a personal statement template. It’s easy to fall into the trap of copying someone else’s style, and in the process lose all of your own voice and personality from your writing. But there is a rough order that you can follow, which should help keep you in your flow. After your opening paragraph or two, get into any work experience (if you’ve got it). Talk about extracurriculars: anything you've done which is relevant to the subject can go here – hobbies, interests, volunteering. Touch on your career aspirations – where do you want this course to take you? Next, show your enthusiasm for your current studies. Cite some specific examples of current work that you enjoyed. Show off your relevant skills and qualities by explaining how you’ve used these in the past. Make sure you’re giving real-world examples here, not just vague assertions like “I’m really organised and motivated”. Try to use examples that are relevant.   Follow this up with something about you as a person. Talk about non-academic stuff that you like to do, but link it in some way with the course, or with how it shows your maturity for dealing with uni life. Round it all off by bringing your main points together, including a final emphasis of your commitment to studying this particular course.

• Read more: how to write your personal statement in an evening  

6. How long should a personal statement be?

You've got to work to a very specific limit when writing your personal statement. In theory you could use up to 4,000 characters – but you’re probably more likely to be limited by the line count. That's because it's a good idea to put line breaks in between your paragraphs (to make it more readable) and you only get a maximum of 47 lines. With this in mind, 3,500 characters is a more realistic limit. But when you’re getting started you should ignore these limits completely. At first, you just want to get down everything that you feel is important. You'll probably end up with something that is far too long, but that's fine. This is where you get to do some polishing and pruning. Keep the focus of your piece on the course you’re applying for, why you want to do it and why you’re perfectly suited to it. Look through what you’ve written so far – have you got the balance right? Chop out anything that goes on a bit, as you want each point to be snappy and succinct.

• Read more: universities reveal all about personal statements  

7. Keep it simple

8. Smart ways to end your personal statement

Writing a closing line that you’re happy with can feel as tricky as coming up with your opener. What you’re looking for here is a sign-off that is bold and memorable. The final couple of sentences in your statement give you the opportunity to emphasise all the good stuff you’ve already covered. Use this space to leave the reader in no doubt as to what an excellent addition you would be to their university. Pull together all your key points and – most importantly – address the central question that your personal statement should answer: why should you get a place on the course?

• Read more: universities explain how to end your personal statement with a bang  

9. Make sure your personal statement has no mistakes

Now you’ve got a personal statement you’re happy with, you need to make sure there are no mistakes. Check it, check it a second time, then check it again. Once you’ve done that, get someone else to check it, too. You will be doing yourself a massive disservice if you send through a personal statement with spelling and/or grammatical errors. You’ve got months to put this together so there really is no excuse for sending through something that looks like a rush job. Ask your teachers to look at it, and be prepared to accept their feedback without getting defensive. They will have seen many personal statements before; use what they tell you to make yours even better. You’ve also got another chance here to look through the content of your personal statement, so you can make sure the balance is right. Make sure your focus is very clearly on the subject you are applying for and why you want to study it. Don’t post your personal statement on the internet or social media where anyone can see it. You will get picked up by the Ucas plagiarism checker. Similarly, don't copy any that you find online. Instead, now is a good time to make your parents feel useful. Read your personal statement out to them and get them to give you feedback. Or try printing it out and mixing it up with a few others (you can find sample personal statements on The Student Room). Get them to read them all and then try to pick yours out. If they can't, perhaps there's not enough of your personality in there.  

10. Don't think about your personal statement for a whole week

If you followed the advice at the very start of this guide, you’ve started your personal statement early. Good job! There are months before you need to submit it. Use one of these weeks to forget about your personal statement completely. Get on with other things – anything you like. Just don’t go near your statement. Give it a whole week and then open up the document again and read through it with fresh eyes. You’ll gain a whole new perspective on what you’ve written and will be well placed to make more changes, if needed.

• Read more: how to write your personal statement when you have nothing interesting to say  

10 steps to your ideal personal statement

In summary, here are the ten steps you should follow to create the perfect personal statement.  

Personal statement dos and don'ts

• Remember that your personal statement is your personal statement, not an article written about your intended field of study. It should tell the reader about you, not about the subject.
• Only put in things that you’re prepared to talk about at the interviews.
• Give convincing reasons for why you want to study the course – more than just "enjoying the subject" (this should be a given).
• For very competitive courses, find out as much as you can about the nature of the course and try to make your personal statement relevant to this.
• Be reflective. If you make a point like 'I like reading', 'I travelled abroad', say what you got from it.
• Go through the whole thing checking your grammar and your spelling. Do this at least twice. It doesn’t matter if you’re not applying to an essay-based course – a personal statement riddled with spelling mistakes is just going to irritate the reader, which is the last thing you want to do. If this is something you find difficult then have someone look over it for you.
• Leave blank lines between your paragraphs. It’s easier for the reader to get through your personal statement when it’s broken into easily digestible chunks. Remember that they’re going to be reading a lot of these! Make yours easy to get through.
• Get someone else's opinion on your statement. Read it out to family or friends. Share it with your teacher. Look for feedback wherever you can find it, then act upon it.
• Don’t write it like a letter. Kicking off with a greeting such as "Dear Sir/Madam" not only looks weird, it also wastes precious space.
• Don’t make jokes. This is simply not the time – save them for your first night in the union.
• Don’t criticise your current school or college or try to blame teachers for any disappointing grades you might have got.
• Be afraid of details – if you want your PS to be personal to you that means explaining exactly which bits of work or topics or activities you've taken part in/enjoyed. It's much more compelling to read about one or two detailed examples than a paragraph that brushes over five or six.
• Just list what you're doing now. You should pull out the experiences that are relevant to the courses which you're applying to.
• Mention skills and activities without giving examples of when they have been demonstrated by you or what you learnt from them. Anyone can write "I have great leadership skills" in a PS, actually using a sentence to explain when you demonstrated good leadership skills is much rarer and more valuable.
• Refer to experiences that took place before your GCSEs (or equivalent).
• Give explanations about medical or mental health problems. These should be explained in your reference, not your PS.
• Apply for too many different courses, making it difficult to write a convincing personal statement which supports the application.
• Write a statement specific to just one institution, unless you're only applying to that one choice.
• Copy and paste the statement from somewhere else! This means do not plagiarise. All statements are automatically checked for plagiarism by Ucas. Those that are highlighted by the computer system are checked manually by Ucas staff. If you’re found to have plagiarised parts of your statement, the universities you apply to will be informed and it could jeopardise your applications.
• Use ChatGPT or another AI program to write your personal statement for you. Or, if you do, make sure you thoroughly edit and personalise the text so it's truly yours. Otherwise you're very much at risk of the plagiarism point above.

You may want to look at these...

How to write your university application.

Tips for writing your university application, including deadlines and personal statements

The Ucas personal statement is changing in 2025

A question-based personal statement will be required as part of university applications from autumn 2025 onwards

How long does it take for universities to reply to your application?

It might feel like it's taking forever for your uni offers to come through. Find out what's going on, and when you should hear back

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How to Write an Artist CV Like a Pro

When you’re ready to take your art career to the next level and  start selling your work , having a well-crafted artist CV is essential.

Think of it as your professional roadmap—a clear and concise document that tells galleries, curators, and collectors exactly who you are as an artist and what you’ve achieved so far.

If you’re looking to get into galleries, they’ll often request your CV before considering your portfolio. This isn’t just a list of accomplishments; it’s a way to communicate your growth, your dedication, and the professional journey you’ve taken as an artist.

In this article, we’ll break down how to create an artist CV that not only reflects your unique artistic path but also strengthens your credibility in the eyes of potential buyers and galleries.

Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience under your belt, a polished CV can be a powerful tool in helping you sell your work and get noticed by the right people. Let’s dive into the essentials that will make your artist CV stand out from the rest.

What is an Artist CV?

Many artist calls and art commission opportunities ask for an  artist bio , an artist statement and a CV. An artist CV (curriculum vitae) is a comprehensive document that lists your professional accomplishments, including education, exhibitions, residencies, awards, and publications.

Unlike a resume, which is a brief summary of your qualifications, an artist CV is more detailed and can be several pages long in list format. It’s an essential tool for applying to exhibitions, grants, residencies, and academic positions.

If you are new to the art world, you may question that you don’t have enough relevant experience to list. Every profession requires creativity at times. Maybe you are a customer service representative needing to think on your feet to resolve customer issues. Or you are a lawyer who often needs to craft persuasive arguments that present their client’s case in the most favorable light. Or even an IT specialist might creatively code a script that automates a repetitive task, saving the company significant time and resources.

Be creative with your language and pull from your past work, and list those individual projects as experience on your CV. It might feel like a stretch, but many times, the CV is more about showing consistency, that you can be trusted over time.

Why Does an Artist CV Matter?

An artist CV matters because it’s more than just a list of your accomplishments—it’s a snapshot of your professional journey.

When you're  approaching galleries , applying for grants, or seeking residencies, your CV is often the first impression you make. It shows curators, collectors, and decision-makers that you take your art practice seriously and have a track record to back it up.

Beyond the prestige, an artist CV demonstrates your growth, skills, and experiences in the art world. It's a way to highlight your exhibitions, education, awards, and professional work, helping others see the depth of your career and commitment. And when it comes to  selling your art , a well-crafted CV can give potential buyers the confidence that they’re investing in a dedicated and professional artist.

Whether you're aiming for solo exhibitions or collaborations, your CV plays a vital role in opening doors and legitimizing your place in the industry.

If you’re looking for inspiration on how to articulate your journey and harness your superpower, listen to our Light Movement Podcast episode on  “Transforming Pain into Creativity ” with  Story Worthy  author Matthew Dicks. It’s a powerful reminder that your experiences—especially the painful ones—can become a source of strength and creativity.

The podcast explores how every story, including your own, has the potential to transform the way others view your art and connect with your journey.

How to Write an Artist CV

Your artist’s CV should be a detailed record of your professional achievements. Here’s what to include:

• Contact Information : Include your full name, address, phone number, and email address.
• Education : List your formal education, including degrees, institutions, and graduation dates. You can also include workshops, masterclasses, or other relevant training.

Example : "MFA, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 2015."

• Exhibitions : Include solo and group exhibitions, listing the title of the show, the venue, location, and date. Organize them chronologically, with the most recent first.

Example : "Solo Exhibition: 'Transient Echoes,' Gallery 1988, Los Angeles, CA, 2023."

• Awards and Honors : List any awards, grants, residencies, or other recognitions you’ve received.

Example : "Artist Residency, Yaddo, Saratoga Springs, NY, 2022."

• Publications : Include articles, books, or catalogs that feature your work. Provide the title, author, publication name, and date.

Example : "Featured in 'Contemporary Artists to Watch,' Art in America, March 2023."

• Professional Experience : List relevant professional experience, such as teaching positions, curatorial projects, or art-related jobs.

Example : "Adjunct Professor of Fine Arts, University of Southern California, 2018–Present."

Artist CV Template

Contact Information:

Name ____________________________________________________

Address __________________________________________________

Phone ___________________________________________________

Email ____________________________________________________

Website __________________________________________________

Degree(s) ________________________________________________

Institution_________________________________________________

Location__________________________________________________

Year of Graduation ________________________________________

Additional Training (workshops, masterclasses, etc.):

Workshop/Program Name _________________________________

Instructor/Institution _______________________________________

Year _____________________________________________________

Exhibitions:

Solo Exhibitions ____________________________________________

Exhibition Title _____________________________________________

Venue ____________________________________________________

Location __________________________________________________

Date _____________________________________________________

Group Exhibitions:

Awards and Honors:

Award/Grant/Residency Name ______________________________

Institution/Organization ____________________________________

Publications:

Title ______________________________________________________

Author/Editor ______________________________________________

Publication Name __________________________________________

Professional Experience:

Position ___________________________________________________

Institution/Organization _____________________________________

Location ___________________________________________________

Date ______________________________________________________

What to Do Next

When you’re ready to take the next big step and  get your art out into the world , preparation is everything. Your passion and hard work have brought you to this point, make sure your professional materials are in place.

This process of creating a CV can help you determine what areas you may need more experience in. For example, If you haven’t had a solo show, it might be time to make one.

This could be as simple as partnering with your local coffee shop for a solo show or be as elaborate as renting out a space for a show. You may want to take a course to beef up your education. For example, take a masterclass on acrylic painting .

Having a strong artist CV, bio, headshot, portfolio, and artist statement ready will ensure you’re not just showing up, but showing up prepared to make an impact.

A polished headshot is equally important, as it humanizes your presence in a professional way. Whether you're submitting your portfolio online or applying for a show, your image gives a face to the name and creates a personal connection.

As for your portfolio, this is where your art speaks for itself. Make sure it’s thoughtfully curated, representing the range and quality of your work while staying cohesive.

And finally, your artist statement should be a clear reflection of why you create. It’s your chance to explain the deeper purpose behind your art—what drives you, what you hope your audience will experience, and how your work fits into the broader artistic conversation.

Being ready with all of these materials ensures that when opportunities arise, you can respond professionally and with confidence. It shows that you’re serious about your art and are ready to take it into the world with intention and purpose.

Your Art Story Matters

Your story matters because it’s the foundation of your art. At Milan Art Institute, we believe every artist has a unique voice, shaped by their personal history and perspective, and only you can express it.

Your journey—every experience, challenge, and triumph—fuels the creativity that pours onto your canvas. Art isn't just about mastering techniques; it’s about making genuine connections. The most powerful art comes from the heart, from the stories that have shaped who you are.

People don’t just buy art—they connect with the artist behind it. When you embrace your story, you give collectors, galleries, and audiences a chance to resonate with your work on a deeper level.

Whether you’ve overcome adversity, found healing through art, or draw inspiration from everyday moments, your story is the key to unlocking your authenticity. And if you’re ever unsure of how to dig deeper into your own journey, turn to some of the  great modern art books  that focus on contemporary artists navigating their unique paths.

By owning your story and seeking inspiration from today’s most influential art books, you’ll find the confidence to express yourself fully and create work that speaks directly from your soul.

Sharing your story makes you more than just another artist; it makes you unforgettable. It sets you apart in a world filled with talent, giving your art context and emotional depth.

That’s why, at Milan Art Institute, we encourage every artist to embrace their past, their passions, and their struggles. Your story is the heartbeat of your art, and it’s what makes your work truly unique.

In our online Mastery Program, artists learn to uncover their unique voice in art and share their story with visual excellence. Our one year program helps artists master techniques, develop their own style, and teaches proven art business skills.

Join the Waitlist for the Mastery Program , and you will be one step closer to becoming a professional artist who thrives!

Why Milan Art Institute?

Your path to artistic mastery starts here.

At the Milan Art Institute, we blend passion with expertise to help you unlock your artistic potential. Our Mastery Program and online art classes are designed for artists at all levels, providing step-by-step guidance and personalized support from seasoned professionals. Whether you're looking to refine your skills, discover new techniques, or build your artistic career, our courses offer the tools and insights you need. Join our vibrant community and transform your art journey with tailored instruction and a supportive environment.

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How to Craft an Excellent MD Residency Personal Statement

Your residency is a critical step on the road to becoming a board-certified physician. Unsurprisingly, the  residency matching process  is incredibly competitive. Program directors look for candidates who have demonstrated excellent academic performance, boast a strong academic record as well as great USMLE scores, and are supported by impressive letters of recommendation.

Before you have a medical residency interview , you can write an impactful personal statement. It is the perfect opportunity to catch a residency program director’s eye. We share some tips from an St. George’s University School of Medicine Alumni and their tips for how to craft a strong residency personal statement.

Physician-approved tips for writing a great residency personal statement

The National Resident Matching Program’s (NRMP)  2024 Program Director Survey  indicates that a candidate’s personal statement for medical residency is among the most important criteria program directors consider when reviewing applications.

Many programs begin filtering candidates by USLME scores, which essentially leaves everyone on a level playing field at that point. You’ll want to craft an eye-catching personal statement to help you stand out in the crowd. Follow these tips for doing just that:

1. Express your individuality

You can demonstrate your academic excellence by offering evidence of a strong medical school performance and a solid USMLE score. However, your residency personal statement offers the opportunity to give program directors a more complete picture of who you are as an individual.

This essay is a chance to highlight what sets you apart from other applicants, so it’s important to go beyond simply listing your achievements. These items will already be included in your curriculum vitae (CV) , so it won’t help admissions committees learn anything new about you.

It’s also smart to ensure that any of the experiences or extracurricular activities you do write about in your personal statement are true interests of yours. Dr. Natasha Sriraman, pediatrician and St. George’s University (SGU) graduate, notes that review committees can tell when you’re not being genuine.

“Don’t do things because you think it’s going to look good,” she advises. “Do things that you’re passionate about.”

2. Demonstrate your interest in the specialty

By the time you reach medical residency, you should have a solid idea of the medical specialty you’re want pursue. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to focus on why you are drawn to that specialty in your residency personal statement.

Be sure to do this in a way that is true to your personal passions rather than providing generic, surface-level motivations. For example, Dr. Sriraman says she’s come across too many candidates applying to pediatrics programs who say they love of working with children. “We all like kids,” she jokes. “That’s not a reason to go into this field of medicine.”

Instead, she suggests sharing an anecdote from an experience you had that influenced your decision to pursue that area of practice. This example could be a recent encounter during clinical rotations, a string of interactions with a particular instructor, or even something that happened prior to your time in medical school. By making a logical connection with you education and practical experience, review committees will have a better understanding of how your experiences will contribute to your success as a physician.

3.Address any potential concerns head-on

It can be uncomfortable to feel like you have any sort of blemish on your CV. But rather than shying away from a bad semester or a mysterious gap in your education, you can use your personal statement as an opportunity to elaborate on what was going on in your life at that time.

Putting academic issues or delays into context can make a big difference. It demonstrates that you possess levels of self-awareness and personal responsibility that can be pretty crucial when practicing medicine.

Furthermore, omitting issues in your personal statement doesn’t mean you can avoid addressing them—if you make it to the next phase of the application process, you can expect these topics to come up in your medical residency interview s. “While it is important to address this gap within your personal statement, I also advise medical students to practice what they’re going to verbally say when asked about the gap during the interview,” Dr. Sriraman says.

4. Be thoughtful about the structure

The Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS) helps streamline the process of  applying to residency programs . They do provide ERAS application information and webinars, but the user guide can be pretty vague about the content when it comes to the personal statement for residency. As long as you structure your essay with an introduction, a middle section, and a conclusion, how you choose to arrange your personal statement is really up to you. What’s most important is that you’re able to keep your readers interested.

If you’re unsure of where to begin, apply the same approach you would with a paper in high school or college. Create an outline to help organize your thoughts, building a logical progression of ideas and experiences. While the parameters around the structure of your residency personal statement are loose, it is a common best practice to limit it to one page in length.

5. Don’t forget to edit and proofread

It’s often helpful to employ an iterative process when drafting this essay. Start by getting everything out on paper. Then go back and begin whittling your story down to include only the most important pieces.

Once you’re happy with how you’ve articulated your experiences and aspirations, it’s smart to enlist some outside opinions. Having a trusted mentor, instructor, or classmate read through your personal statement can be helpful, as they’re familiar with the inner workings of the medical field.

In addition, feedback from people from more casual acquaintances can help you collect objective opinions based solely on your writing. And be sure to have any strong writers or editors you know proofread your essay because even the smallest errors could make a big statement about your focus or attention to detail. Students at SGU have the advantage of submitting their personal statements to be edited by physicians who are residency mentors.

6. Give yourself enough time

Given how many elements you need to complete for residency applications, you’ll be doing yourself a huge favor by starting your personal statement with plenty of time to spare. Even if you consider yourself a fast writer, it’s smart to be proactive. In fact, it’s often recommended to spend at least two months working on this essay.

“Between taking exams, finishing your applications, and regular life, you want to give yourself two to three months,” Dr. Sriraman specifies. Giving yourself extra time allows you to progress through the multiple phases of writing and editing without feeling rushed.

Start writing your residency success story

You don’t have to be a seasoned writer to pen an effective residency personal statement. With some careful planning, thoughtful phrasing, and a thorough review process, you can write an essay that will make program directors take notice.

Your personal statement for residency could end up being the factor that helps you secure a coveted interview invitation. These face-to-face meetings will be the final stage that allows program directors to determine if you’d be a good fit for their residency positions.

Get ready to put your best foot forward in those conversations by reviewing the advice in our article “ Residency Interview Preparation Tips for Medical Students. ”

Ready to start your medical school journey?

Are you considering St. George’s University Medical School? If you need any more convincing, just reach out to some graduates or current students. They’re happy to tell you what their experiences were like.

If you feel like SGU could be the right medical school for you, take the next step. Continue your research by visiting our request information page.

*This article was originally published in 2019. It has since been updated to reflect new information.

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1 Data as of March 2024.

2 As the medical school graduating the largest number of students per year, SGU places the largest number of graduates into residency programs each year, based on internal SGU graduate/expected graduate and residency placement data as of March 2024.

3 Average of 2019, 2020, 2021 scores. First-time pass rate is defined as the number of students passing USMLE Step 1 on their first attempt divided by the total number of students taking USMLE Step 1 for the first time. In order to be certified to take USMLE Step 1, students are required to pass all basic sciences courses.

4 Average of academic years 2019, 2020, 2021 scores. First-time pass rate is defined as the number of students passing USMLE Step 2 CK on their first attempt divided by the total number of students taking USMLE Step 2 CK for the first time. USMLE Step 2 CK is typically taken upon completion of third-year core clinical rotations.

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A personal statement is one of the first opportunities to tell universities all about yourself and make a good impression. We hope to provide a comprehensive overview of how you can go about writing a personal statement in order to maximise your chances of getting into medical school.

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5 essential elements of a standout linkedin summary (with examples).

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5 essential elements of a standout LinkedIn summary (with examples)

At the top of every LinkedIn profile is a very important section: the summary. Here’s where anyone visiting your profile has a chance to learn about you. Don’t waste this opportunity. Your LinkedIn summary is your digital elevator pitch. It's where you grab attention, showcase your value, and turn passive browsers into real connections.

Here are five key elements to include in a winning LinkedIn summary, with real-world examples from professionals on LinkedIn who know what they are doing.

Each example takes a slightly different approach but each is genius in its own way.

Craft a LinkedIn summary that sells with these pro tips

Hook with a problem statement.

Your potential clients are drowning in a sea of content. They're overwhelmed, confused, and desperate for a lifeline. Your LinkedIn summary is that lifeline, if you know how to throw it to them.

John Ainsworth , The Funnel Guy and founder of Data Driven Marketing, nails this approach. He opens his summary with: "Are tons of people seeing your free content, but not enough people buying your paid courses?" This immediately speaks to his target audience's pain point.

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He follows up with more specific questions. "Do you have low sales despite great traffic, good email open rates and decent landing pages? Do you need to improve your conversion rates or struggle with building an automated sales system?"

By articulating these problems, Ainsworth shows he understands his audience's challenges. This creates an instant connection and makes readers want to learn more. What questions would you ask in yours?

Showcase your unique value proposition

Be remarkable or invisible. Make your choice. Include your unique value proposition near the top of your summary, so people know exactly what you do and who you do it for. This can make your profile a magnet for your dream clients.

Charlotte Lloyd , Founder of The Client Acquisition Club, does this brilliantly. A few lines in, she states: "I help you increase pipeline and convert clients on LinkedIn by showing you how to social sell using content along with a warm outbound & inbound system to close sales."

This clear statement tells potential clients exactly what she offers and how she's different from others. She backs it up with specifics. "I have a client acquisition club program for founders, coaches & consultants who want to level up social selling on LinkedIn using content and outreach to warm up prospects. And use sales strategies to close more deals."

Lloyd's summary leaves no doubt about her expertise and the value she brings to her clients. Consider this approach for yours if Lloyds sounds good to you.

Demonstrate credibility with results

Talk is cheap. Results speak volumes. When everyone on LinkedIn is telling you what to do and how, your past successes are what sets you apart. Once you’ve made your offer clear, it’s time to back it up. You don’t need to invent stories, because you already did the doing. Use your summary to make that clear.

Richard Moore , LinkedIn expert and consultant, excels at this. He doesn't just claim he can help; he proves it towards the end of his LinkedIn summary. "Need proof? Take a look for yourself! Every day, my content gets thousands of views and huge engagement, that drives leads, opportunities and sales for my services."

He goes further, mentioning, "I'm proud to have helped businesses from solopreneurs to 9-figure brands close better sales. I've also taught hundreds of clients over the world how to sell using LinkedIn through my coaching, courses and lectures."

By showcasing his results and experience right there in his summary, Moore builds trust and credibility with potential clients. What’s the social proof equivalent for you?

Add personality to stand out

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Leslie Douglas , vice president of sponsorship at Sell Better, shares personality in her summary. She starts with an unexpected take on sales. "I got into sales as a profession as many people do…. by accident! But over time, I have discovered that everything we are doing is sales."

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This approach, emojis included, helps potential connections see her as a real person, not just a LinkedIn profile. How can you show off your winning personality?

Close with a clear call-to-action

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Chris Ritson , founder and sales education expert, ends his summary with a direct invitation to connect. He provides his email address and phone number, making it easy for interested parties to reach out. If that’s not your vibe, share your site. Share a lead magnet that you know is irresistible to your dream client. Earlier in Ritson’s summary, he does exactly this too.

By giving clear next steps, Ritson increases the chances of profile viewers taking the next step. Don’t let people bounce off your profile when you tell them where to go. Turn passive followers to engaged subscribers, calls or listeners when you close out strong.

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Your LinkedIn summary is your chance to make a strong first impression. Hook readers with a problem statement you know they relate to. Clearly state your unique value so there’s no ambiguity. Back up your claims with real results and demonstrate your experience with numbers. Inject some personality to stand out. And always end with a clear call-to-action.

Treat your LinkedIn profile like you would your website or your product’s packaging. Use your summary to set yourself up for success and be forever grateful you did.

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Art personal statement example 3.

Why I want to study Art? Art is a very important part of my life which began when I was a child and went through good and bad times of my life with me. Art inspires people, remind them they are not alone and there is always a reason to keep going. Art also entertain people, make them happy and enjoy themselves. Even if people do not think about it because Art is everywhere around us. I enjoy that art is just a subjective and varying term, really anything can be art if you put your mind and passion into it.

Since I was a child I have been drawing. That is the only thing I have been passionate about my whole life. There have been moments when I would forget about it but when I looked at something simple, it would remind me how much I love doing it. There is always something that could inspire you in your surroundings even if it the most ordinary thing, a layout of a room, a building you have passed a million times but never noticed, the people on the street or even a detail on a pen. Having an artistic perspective has given me a very unique way of looking at things, for instance, where others see an ordinary building, I see an architectural marvel of curves and engineering. I want to be able to help people the same way Art helps me. I want to do something I enjoy and it will not be just a career, it will be a way of life.

During my two years of Architectural studies, I learned that there are many ways of how you can create something. I also learned that there are many different materials you can use to create something that could be called art, I got inspired not only from work of famous people but also from other students’ work and way of thinking. A skill I started improving was communication. With all the team work and the need of speaking with different people, improving that skill was a must. Working in team and as an individual at the same time helped me develop time management and multitasking skills. I have been creative and enthusiastic person my whole life. My favourite subject, except art, was maths. I have always had an affection for it throughout all the years I have been in school and it helped me develop and later improve my problem solving and logical skills. I have the determination to study Arts. I want to keep improving the skills I have, as well as, learning and developing new ones. I want to meet new creative people and explore even more the world of Arts.

I see music the same way I see art. Different notes and beats put all together to create a piece of work delivered with passion and energy. Cinema, photography and architecture hold the same qualities for me.

Every person sees the world differently. Some may see a dirty, old telephone box, a photographer will see the telephone box with red light inside and an inspiration for a fine art photo. Some may see just an abandoned ruined building and an architect an inspiration and opportunity for a new one.

A person once told me that there is no right or wrong in art. Even if someone does not like it, you do and you did it for yourself first of all and you enjoyed it. I want to continue with art for myself as well as to inspire people to do the same, to not give up on their dreams. Art is not only a career choice but a life choice, my life choice.

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