Lesson 2: Artist Statement Writing — What It Means + Why It Matters
What is an artist statement?
A short explanation of your work that helps an audience understand:
- What the story is about
- Why you made it
- What you want people to think/feel/do
- How you made it responsibly
Learning goals
By the end of this lesson, you can write a 150–250 word artist statement.
- A) Artist statement structure (copy this)
1) Title + issue (1–2 lines)
What is the video about and where is it set?
2) Why this matters (2–4 lines)
What problem did you observe? Who is affected?
3) Your approach (3–5 lines)
How did you gather information (observation, interviews, photos/video)? How did you protect dignity and safety?
4) What you want the audience to do (1–2 lines)
Your call-to-action (CTA).
- B) Example (for guidance only)
“My video explores how plastic waste blocks drainage channels in my community, causing flooding during heavy rains. I chose this story because I saw how families and small businesses are affected. I filmed daily life scenes and recorded short interviews with community members, ensuring consent and avoiding any identifying details that could put someone at risk. I want viewers to understand that this is a shared responsibility and that small actions can create change. My call-to-action is to reduce single-use plastics and join a community clean-up effort.”
Mini-task
Draft your artist statement in notes. Keep it:
- Simple
- Honest
- Respectful
- 150–250 words