Explaining artwork often goes against the grain, yet artists are regularly called upon to articulate their processes, tools, and dynamics of collaboration. To help secure any of the myriad forms of institutional support including funding, venues, and engagements, artists must develop–creatively and flexibly–essential skills. Finding a public language for what is the private process of creation is an art in itself. Furthermore, understanding and discovering ways to adapt to changing economic realities is a critical component of making work; bringing the work into the world is a natural part of the artist’s process.

This course addresses basic issues involved in generating, developing, producing, and presenting artwork. Students will write artist statements, press releases, biographical statements, resumes, CV’s, grants and cover letters; will prepare budgets; will organize promotional portfolios/videotapes; will interview each other; and will give short lecture demonstrations.