Prepairing for the Looking glass

The next show is going to be big. And we want to show off our talented artists the best we can.
So we need our artists to send in a bio with their next show entry.
If you have never written a bio before or need to update your old one, here are a few tips to make sure you are seen in the best light possible.

Written by Gallery Director, Sam Thorp
When a viewer /buyer asks about the artist (you), what should the gallery tell them?
THAT is the point of an artists bio.

It provides the human connection to potential buyers. A window into your world.
The biography sets out where the artist is from, the educational background, exhibitions, affiliations, awards, and so on. It can include why you make art and what it's about; but most of that should be left for the artist's statement. A bio should be short and concise, with enough information to make you interesting. It's not an autobiography of your WHOLE life; but what is relevant to the art you make.

Start by answering these questions:
Who are you?
What is your work about? Or what would you tell someone who had never seen your work?
What is distinct about your style and/or approach?
What drives you? Why did you start making art?
Why did you choose this art form? Why these materials?
How did you learn to do this? Mention any schools or degrees.
Have you won any awards? Any career highlights?
Where is your studio?


Take those answers and assemble them as such:
1st paragraph: Intro sentence and some identity branding
2nd paragraph: the immediate purpose of the bio. What is going on right now. Your current activities.
3rd paragraph: Your past experience, career path and how you got to here.
Ending: Wrap it up. Use a quote if you like.


Use proper grammar and spelling. Keep it organized. Have it proofread by a smart person.
Avoid cliches and hyperbole. Try to sound like … you are just being yourself.
If your still stuck look up the bios of other professional artists for examples.
Keep copies for future use.

Traditionally a bio is written a third person voice, but if you are going to record your own bio on video stick to first person.