Best Practices for Writing a Standard Artist CV/Resume
In the art world, your CV is more than just a list of accomplishments; it's a reflection of your artistic journey and professional ethos. Creating a standout artist CV requires a blend of precision, clarity, and authenticity. Here are some best practices to guide you:
WHAT GOES IN A STANDARD ARTIST CV:
Header: include contact info (email) and your website.
Extras: instagram handle, address, phone number.
Section 1: Info - Start with Name, Date of Birth, And where you live.
Extra: where you were born.
Section 1: Solo Exhibitions
Section 2: Group Exhibition
Section 3: Press or writing about your work
Section 4: Awards and Residencies
Section 5: Collections (public and private)
Section 6: Other work that is pertinent to you as an artist
Extra: Volunteer work, public speaking, teaching positions. Make it ART related!
STANDARD FORMAT FOR YOUR SHOWS:
There are a few different formats, but the one I see most commonly is:
Year, Gallery Name, Location, Show Title (curator)
It will look like this:
2024: Second Street Gallery, VA. Big Bad Show (curated by Bippy Boppy)
2023: Fluffy Gallery, RI. Mind Your Business (curated by Bloopy Jean Smith)
Art Gallery 23, NY. Double Trouble
2022: Alfalfa Projects, CA. Sprout or Die (curated by Hippie Lippie)
LENGTH OF AN ARTIST RESUME
When you are starting out, there might not be much on your CV. Don’t worry! That can sometimes be a benefit for curators looking for under represented artists. Please don’t pad your resume, most of us can tell when a resume is “stretched” and its better to be clear and concise.
Most artists will have one page of resume for every ten years they have been showing. So if you have been working for 20 years, you might have a 2 page resume. Again, dont worry if this isn’t you, having a short resume can be a benefit too!
OTHER NOTES ON CV/RESUME FOR ARTISTS
1. Keep It Professional and Up-to-Date:
Start with your most recent achievements and work backward. Regularly updating your CV ensures that it reflects your latest exhibitions, awards, and residencies, showcasing your current standing in the art community.
2. Structure Matters:
Organize your CV into clear sections such as personal information, education, solo/group exhibitions, awards and recognitions, residencies, publications, and collections. This structure makes it easy for viewers to understand your career progression and accomplishments.
3. Be Concise but Comprehensive:
While detail is important, aim for conciseness. Use bullet points for readability, and don't shy away from listing notable achievements. However, avoid overwhelming the reader with excessive information that could dilute the impact of your key milestones.
4. Tailor Your CV:
Customize your CV for its intended purpose. Whether you're applying for a grant, residency, or gallery representation, highlight the aspects of your career most relevant to the opportunity. This tailored approach demonstrates your understanding of the opportunity and its requirements.
5. Proofread:
A CV free from grammatical errors and typos speaks to your professionalism and attention to detail. Consider asking a peer or mentor to review your CV, offering feedback on both content and presentation.
6. Include Contact Information:
Make it easy for galleries, collectors, and institutions to reach you by including updated contact information. This typically includes your name, email, phone number, and professional website or portfolio link.
7. Visual Aesthetics:
While the content is paramount, the visual presentation of your CV should not be overlooked. Use a clean, professional format that aligns with your artistic style. If you have a logo or branding, incorporate it subtly to create a cohesive look across your professional documents.
CONCLUSION
In essence, your artist CV is a strategic tool that communicates your artistic identity, accomplishments, and professional journey. By adhering to these best practices, you can craft a CV that not only captures the essence of your work but also opens doors to new opportunities and collaborations in the vibrant art world.