Artist Statement. Blegh.

I know a lot of artists dread writing their statement. I unfortunately have not been blessed with the ability to write a captivating Artist Statement. Having to write a statement about my work, artistic process, and concepts and to make it sound intelligent while being concise and intriguing (and maybe even a little witty) seems like an impossible task. Especially after 904 drafts. I feel like Grady Tripp in Wonder Boys: I just keep writing more and more and don't ever get closer to the end. (I even have an equally dirty, shaggy old lady sweater that I wear when I'm working!)

While other artists might dismiss the artist statement as irrelevant to their work and abilities, I do see the value in having a well written one. If written well, they can include viewers in some of the behind the scenes information and give a more comprehensive experience of the work. It could also make some foundation somewhere want to give me money.

So I'm continuing to work on my statement for various submissions to exhibitions and grant applications and am wishing I had some skill with the written word. And to think, I used to want to be a writer!