How to Write a Biography That Builds Your Artist Brand
- MK Pegues
- Oct 16
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 18
Art doesn’t just decorate a wall; it tells a story. Behind every painting, sculpture, or mixed media piece is an artist with a journey, a purpose, and a voice that deserves to be heard.
Your artist biography isn’t just a paragraph on your website; it’s your first chance to make collectors feel connected to you. It’s the bridge between your art and your audience, and it’s one of the core topics I teach in my Artist Mentorship, because this is where your brand truly begins.
"If you’re an artist who’s ready to grow, not just on social media, but in confidence, clarity, and actual sales, I'd love to help you get there." MK
Why Your Story Matters
Collectors don’t just fall in love with the art; they fall in love with the artist. Your biography gives your audience a glimpse into your inspiration, your process, and your “why.”
Think of artists like Van Gogh or Frida Kahlo; their art is unforgettable, but their stories made them legendary. When people understand what shaped your creativity, your work gains deeper meaning and emotional value.
Your biography is how you take control of that story, not leaving it up to others to interpret.
Should an Artist Bio Be Written in First Person?
This depends on where your bio will be used and how you want people to experience it.
Writing in the first person (“I am a landscape painter…”) feels personal and conversational. It lets readers hear your voice directly, which can be powerful on your website, social media, or video bio. It builds instant trust and authenticity and perfect for connecting with potential collectors or followers.
Writing in the third person (“Mary Katherine is a Texas-based artist…”) feels more formal and objective. This style is often used by galleries, press releases, and exhibition catalogs, where professionalism and consistency are key.
Pro Tip: Write both versions. Use your first-person bio where your voice matters most and your third-person bio when you need to sound official. That way, your brand is both authentic and professional.
How to Write an Engaging Artist Biography
A strong biography blends clarity, storytelling, and heart. Here’s a quick guide I share with artists inside my mentorship:
Start with a strong introduction: Lead with what makes you unique.
Include background information: Mention training, influences, and pivotal moments.
Describe your style and themes: What do you create and why?
Highlight achievements: Awards, exhibitions, and collaborations build credibility.
Keep it concise and readable: Avoid jargon; use clear, confident language.
Add a personal touch: Share your creative philosophy or what drives your passion.
Example: ➡ “Julia Klimova is a contemporary abstract impressionist whose vibrant paintings explore the interplay of color and emotion. Trained in fine arts, she draws inspiration from nature and urban life, creating dynamic compositions that invite viewers to experience movement and light.”
This example balances professionalism with personality, and that’s exactly what a brand-forward bio should do.
Go Beyond Words: Create a Video Biography
Here’s a modern twist that most artists overlook: Create a short video biography.
Grab your phone, record yourself talking about who you are, what you create, and why it matters. This doesn’t have to be cinematic. Authenticity wins every time. Collectors love seeing the artist behind the work. When they see your passion and hear your story in your own voice, a connection happens instantly. You can add this to your website, your social media bio, or even include it in gallery submissions. In my mentorship, we walk through how to plan, script, and film this in a way that feels natural and true to your brand.
Learning from the Life Stories of Artists
Studying the lives of other artists can offer an incredible perspective. Behind every masterpiece lies resilience, experimentation, and courage.
Takeaways from their journeys:
Embrace your unique path: There’s no one right way to be an artist.
Use challenges as fuel: Adversity often leads to your best creative work.
Keep experimenting: Growth happens when you stay curious.
Share your story: Your background adds depth to your art.
Stay persistent: Success comes from showing up again and again.
Your Story is the Foundation of Your Brand
If writing about yourself feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. But your story is the most powerful marketing tool you have.
In my Artist Mentorship, I help artists uncover their authentic voice and transform it into a biography that sells — not because it’s flashy, but because it’s real. We’ll refine your written bio, help you create a video version, and make sure every word aligns with your personal brand.
Growing an art career doesn’t happen by accident; it happens with intention, strategy, and support. If you're ready to start building the career you know you're capable of, I’d love to share the tools and guidance that can help get you there.
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When you’re ready for hands-on help, you can explore the Good Artist Mentorship Program Here. Whether you're just starting or leveling up, I’m here to help you move forward with confidence.
Hi there! I'm MK and thank you for reading How to Write a Biography That Builds Your Artist Brand. To stay up-to-date with our latest art additions and all our artists' works, follow us on Instagram and YouTube. And visit our Online Art Shop daily for new available artworks.
