(Oct 13, 2017) Open Studios: Writing your Artist Statement

As part of the Open Studio Series, Groundswell invites you to join us for an evening workshop on Friday, October 13^th to develop a thoughtful and professional artist statement through an interactive workshop with artist and writer Michelle Levy.

About the Workshop: As visual creatures, our first compulsion is to feel that our art should speak for itself. Why should we have to write what our art already expresses? Well, here’s the thing: The clearest way that people communicate with one another is by using words. People who come into contact with your art for the first time are going to have questions. Your art will compel them to stop and look, it will inspire an experience, but as we all know, art is subjective, and inquiring minds want to know. And in this moment, your artist statement is going to be your best friend.

 Your artist statement connects your art to the broadest audience possible. It uses language that everyone can understand to give an introduction about your work and make your art accessible. It distinguishes your art from everyone else’s, and talks about what makes it significant. It compels interested viewers to want to see more, and maybe even get to know you better. The artist statement invites contact, interactions, inquiries, and opportunities for dialogue.

Writing your statement can be a difficult process, but it is also enormously valuable. At the very least, it will help you achieve a greater understanding of yourself as an artist. At best, it will help lead to shows, sales, or representation. Join us at Groundswell Studio on Friday, October 13^th for a workshop lead by facilitator Michelle Levy to help guide you through the process of creating your best statement yet, and learn how words can make your art look better.

Sponsored by Bronx Brewery

What to Bring: Your artist statement in progress, a notepad, and pencils or pens.

About the Facilitator: Michelle Levy is an interdisciplinary artist and storyteller in New York City. Her trans-media investigations evolve on and off-stage, often unfolding over years. Levy holds an MFA in Digital and Interdisciplinary Art Practice from the City College of New York, and a BA in Studio art at Wesleyan University, CT.  Since 2008, Levy has been the creator and Program Director of EFA Project Space, a contemporary art venue that is part of The Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts in Manhattan. She has been a guest lecturer and panelist at universities and institutions for both her art and organizational practices, including American University, Lower Manhattan Cultural Counsel, NYFA, Parsons School of Design, Rhode Island School of Design, and others.