Download Artist Statement Planning Worksheet here.
Directions: Use this Artist Statement Planning Worksheet to help you write a rough draft of your Artist Statement. Please note that this is NOT your final draft. Your final Artist Statement must be typed in your own approximately 200 words and submitted with your artwork on the ArtCall submission portal. (Students in upper elementary grades 3-5 may submit approximately 100 words.)
Name: _____________________________________ Title of Your Artwork: ______________________________________________________________
Your Chosen American Hero:___________________________________________________________________________________________________
Art Style Influence (for example: Colonialism, Realism, Impressionism, etc.): ___________________________________________________________
Answer at least two of these three questions in your Artist Statement:
1. Describe the subject of your artwork: Which American Hero did you choose, and how does your artwork represent this historical figure? Why did you choose this person? (Was it his or her courage or contribution, a specific moment in history, or a personal connection to your own life?)
2. Explain how your artwork was influenced by a particular historical American art style or artist: Which art style did you use to tell this story? Why does this style fit your hero? (For example: Impressionism with soft colors and light can make the artwork feel like a beautiful memory; or Realism with fine detail can show struggle on the hero’s face.)
3. Share why your artwork’s message is important (or matters): Why does this person and their contribution to America matter to our nation, to your community, and to you? What might this person teach us about living heroically?
Tips for Students:
● Be Specific: Instead of saying "they were brave," tell us how your composition, colors, or brushstrokes, etc. show that bravery.
● The Details Matter: Every artist makes unique choices about his or her artwork. Are there any details in your work—a specific location or a certain object–that have special meaning? Tell us why you chose them.
● Write Like You Speak: You don't have to try to use "fancy" art words. Write like you’re explaining your piece to a friend. Your honesty is what makes your art truly shine!
Use the answers to these questions to help you write a first draft of your Artist Statement. Then type your final draft to be submitted on ArtCall along with a picture of your original artwork.
Download Artist Statement Planning Worksheet here.
