Crafting a professional and compelling artist CV is an essential step for emerging artists looking to establish their careers. Whether applying for residencies, exhibitions, grants, or jobs, your CV is often the first impression you make on curators, galleries, and potential collaborators. This guide will walk you through the key elements of a strong artist CVand provide actionable tips to make yours stand out.
What Is an Artist CV?
An artist CV (curriculum vitae) is a document that outlines your artistic career, achievements, and credentials. Unlike a standard professional resume, an artist CV focuses on your creative accomplishments, such as exhibitions, awards, residencies, and education in the arts.
Your artist CV is not just a list of accomplishments—it’s a snapshot of your career trajectory and artistic identity. It should be clear, concise, and tailored to the opportunity you’re pursuing.
Key Components of an Artist CV
- Contact Information
Start with your full name, professional email address, phone number, and website or portfolio link. Include your studio location if relevant. - Professional Summary or Artist Statement (optional)
A brief overview (1-2 sentences) summarizing your artistic practice, focus, or achievements can set the tone for your CV. - Education
List your formal education, including degrees, certifications, and workshops relevant to your artistic career. Mention the institution name, location, degree earned, and year of graduation.Example:- Master of Fine Arts (MFA), Sculpture – Ca’ Foscari University, Venice, Italy (2024)
- Exhibitions
Categorize your exhibitions into solo exhibitions and group exhibitions for clarity. Include the exhibition title, venue name, location, and year.Example:- Solo Exhibition: “Echoes of Time,” Galleria d’Arte Moderna, Milan, Italy (2023)
- Group Exhibition: “Emerging Visions,” Contemporary Art Space, London, UK (2022)
- Residencies and Fellowships
Highlight any artist residencies or fellowships you’ve participated in, as these demonstrate dedication to your craft and professional growth.Example:- Artist-in-Residence, The Clay Studio, Philadelphia, USA (2022)
- Awards and Grants
Mention any awards, grants, or scholarships that recognize your artistic achievements.Example:- Winner, Emerging Artist Grant, Art Council of Venice (2021)
- Professional Experience
Include roles like teaching, curatorial projects, or other art-related jobs. Clearly state your role, the organization, and the dates. - Publications and Media Coverage
If your work has been featured in catalogs, magazines, or online platforms, list them in this section.Example:- Featured Artist, ArtForum Magazine (June 2023)
- Collections (optional)
Include notable private or public collections that feature your work. - Skills (optional)
Highlight relevant technical skills, such as proficiency in software (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator), mediums (e.g., oil painting, ceramics), or techniques.
