The Language of Art

Describe Your Work with Clarity & Confidence

How you speak about your art shapes how people connect with it. Whether at an exhibition, interview or in writing, your words define your presence as an artist.

At an Opening or Art Fair

• Keep it conversational and warm.

• Share the story behind your work.

• Focus on feeling and process, not theory.

• Invite curiosity without over explaining.

• Let your passion and tone draw people in.

During Interviews or Studio Visits

• This is your chance to expand on your ideas.

• Talk about your themes and artistic evolution.

• Use precise art vocabulary. Research ahead for the correct terms.

• Choose a couple key works you feel are the strongest and share insight as to why.

• Connect your practice to lived experience or research.

• Balance intellect with authenticity.

In Writing | Statements, Bios, Proposals

• Writing lets you deepen your artistic narrative. Be clear about your medium, concepts, and process.

• Use strong art terms: visual language, conceptual framework, interdisciplinary process.

• Add a touch of emotion; its presence in your works and why it matters.

Why It Matters

Your language is part of your art, as strategy, documentation and expression.

It shapes how curators, collectors, and audiences see your work. Confident communication opens doors.