by Erich
Status: 11.18.2023
Should I have an academic qualification?
Should I have an academic qualification? A degree from an art college can offer various advantages. Of course, there are also some artists who have become famous as self-taught artists. However, even these artists often already have a strong network of contacts within the art world. It is precisely these contacts that one gains at art colleges and universities. As one often applies to specific classes taught by particular lecturers, one can influence who one wishes to study under and whether the lecturer is a good fit for one’s own work. You can receive personalised support and be introduced to other artists by your lecturers. Furthermore, you engage intensively with art and the wider art world for several years. You learn to assess the value of your own works, to refine your artistic craft and to gain a good understanding of art history. You therefore enter the art world with a solid foundation, which can bring you many advantages.
Which exhibitions should I include on my CV?
When it comes to your CV, quality is more important than quantity. Three exhibitions at the restaurant round the corner often make a less favourable impression than a group exhibition featuring slightly better-known artists. There are many artists who try their hand at various exhibitions but do not necessarily include them on their CV. It’s perfectly fine to omit a few exhibitions that you yourself might not consider particularly important. What’s important is continuity, so that there aren’t any large gaps in your CV. Solo exhibitions should be listed separately from group exhibitions.
How important are art prizes?
Winning or being nominated for an art prize can be beneficial. Of course, it’s important to consider beforehand who is sponsoring the prizes and whether the foundations are a good fit for you. And there are also artists who received prizes very late in their careers, or not at all, but who have nevertheless gone on to become fantastic artists. However, if you have won prizes, you should definitely include them in your CV.
How important is social media?
An online presence is becoming increasingly important. Many well-known artists use social media to showcase their latest work or announce new exhibitions. Sometimes, galleries discover or feature artists via Instagram. It’s therefore worth putting some effort into your online presence, for example by posting good photos on Instagram or setting up your own website. Newspaper articles in which you are mentioned by name are also beneficial. If, for example, an exhibition has been covered by the press, it’s worth including this on your CV.
You shouldn’t approach the whole thing too analytically, but always ask yourself: What best represents my art and me? Did I have an exhibition that doesn’t really fit in with my current work? If so, it’s best not to include it. Do I have an exhibition that I can talk about at length, and perhaps there are even a few articles about it online? Then include it!
