I'm struggling to write my Artist's Statement for SAIC. I've started writing, however the word limit is 500 and I'm barely over 250. How should I elaborate/develop this piece?
Tucked under my arms every day is a beat-up portfolio coated in psychedelic doodles and eroded ducktape to keep it together. Moving from one project to the next, I always need it by my side. With frequent commission work, pieces for my studio class due every week, and Art Honors Society projects to work on, there is never a time where I’m not drawing.
Some find my behavior odd. And in all honesty, I don’t blame them. Carrying around a massive portfolio the size of your body isn’t exactly common behaviour. However, I find it entirely necessary for the way I work. By consistently experimenting with new mediums and styles, I seek new ways to express my ideas. Merging digital art with printmaking, layering monoprints with linoleum, exploring new forms of mark-making– my investigation of each concept I chose to tackle always has a unique approach. A peek into my portfolio is a peek into my creative mind. With every mark and stroke, you can see my emotion shine through. Certain pieces sit incomplete revealing my process, while others are complete and show my intent overall.
Keeping this collective set of work on me at all times comforts me. I know that if I look in there, I can see the endless exploration of my artistic capability. I know that while some of my lesser work sits in there, my award-winning pieces keep them company. I know that my portfolio, mangled and all, shows my strength and capability as an artist.
To elaborate and develop your artist's statement, consider expanding on the following points:
1. Your creative process: Talk about how you approach your projects and the steps you take to bring your ideas to life. Explain the significance of experimenting with new mediums and styles in your work, and how this contributes to your artistic growth.
Example: "In my creative process, I believe in pushing the boundaries and exploring new possibilities. I constantly experiment with different mediums and styles to challenge myself and discover new ways to convey my ideas. Whether it's merging digital art with printmaking or layering different printing techniques, I am always seeking innovative approaches to express my emotions and concepts."
2. Reflect on the meaning behind your artwork: Explain the underlying themes, emotions, or concepts that drive your creative choices. Discuss how your art reflects your personal experiences, perspectives, or aspirations.
Example: "Each piece in my portfolio represents a window into my creative mind, reflecting my innermost thoughts and emotions. Through every mark and stroke, I strive to convey a specific mood or idea. Whether it's exploring societal issues, grappling with personal struggles, or capturing moments of joy and beauty, my art serves as a medium to communicate and connect with the viewer on a deep level."
3. Highlight your growth and achievements: Discuss your artistic journey, highlighting your strengths, milestones, and any recognition you have received. Emphasize the importance of your portfolio as a tangible testament to your artistic growth and capability.
Example: "My portfolio is a testament to my artistic journey and growth. It embodies my commitment to constant improvement and my willingness to take risks. Within its pages, you will find a collection of both completed and unfinished pieces, showcasing my creative process and the evolution of my ideas. It is a visual testament to the struggles, triumphs, and countless hours I have dedicated to honing my craft. From award-winning pieces to experimental works, my portfolio represents both my strengths as an artist and my capacity for creativity."
By expanding on these points, you can add depth and substance to your artist's statement, allowing you to surpass the word limit and provide a more comprehensive understanding of your artistic practice.