What is a cover letter?
An artist cover letter is a concise (250-400 words) document accompanying a portfolio, job application, or grant proposal. It introduces the artist, explains the motivation behind their work, and explains why their creative vision aligns with the gallery, curator, or company they are contacting. It focuses on the "why" and "how" of the art, complementing the resume's "what".
Common Uses
- Submitting a portfolio for gallery representation.
- Applying for artist grants, residencies, or project funding.
- Applying for jobs like Art Director, Designer, or Curator.
Why Cover letters are important?
It bridges the gap between your artistic output (portfolio) and your professional history (resume), proving you are both creative and professional.
What to include in a cover letter?
- Personalized Introduction: Address the specific curator, hiring manager, or gallery director to show research and respect.
- Artistic Narrative: Instead of just listing experience, describe your artistic style, themes, and creative approach to create a compelling story.
- Why Them? Explain why your specific style fits the gallery’s vision or the company's creative goals.
- Connection to Work: Express your artistic passion and how your professional journey led to this opportunity.
- Clear Call to Action: Express enthusiasm for discussing your work further and confirm your intention to follow up.
- Professional Formatting: Keep it to one page with a clean layout and include contact information.