Artist statements and critique: talking about your art

An artwork should do most of its own talking. But a short artist statement helps visitors go deeper. It tells them what you were thinking about, why you made certain choices and who or what influenced you.

What goes in a statement

An example

'My collage is about the Whanganui River near my nana's house. I tore paper instead of cutting it because the river bank is never straight. I made the water the only blue thing so your eye follows it through the picture. I was influenced by Marilynn Webb's prints of Otago lakes and hills. I hope you think about a river that matters to you.'

Critique is not criticism

A critique is a careful look at how well a work does what the artist wanted. It isn't about liking or disliking. Use three starters: - I notice… (something you can see) - I wonder… (a question) - What if… (a suggestion to try)

Keep comments about the work, not the person. The artist listens first, then chooses which feedback to use. You don't have to use it all.

When people read it differently

Sometimes visitors see something you never intended. That isn't failure. Artworks are open, and viewers bring their own lives to them. Ask yourself what they saw that led them there. Sometimes it shows you a stronger idea hiding in your work.