Are you a journalist who wants to approach the world of art? Then you must know that artists and curators often behave in an exclusive way, but in reality everyone is just looking for recognition. Anyone involved in the art world knows how much trends come and go, and how much an artist's reputation can be built or destroyed by a single, influential review. Here are some passages that will teach you how to write an insightful and objective art journalism article.
Steps
Step 1. Think about the meaning and purpose of the exhibit and artwork
Ask yourself the following questions:
- "Why are the works ordered and arranged in this way?"
- "Is there a particular work that stands out from the rest?"
- "What is the theme or subtext of this exhibition?"
- "How is this exhibition different from the others I have seen?"
Step 2. Take note of the things that strike you
If a particular artist or work stands out in your eyes, take more detailed notes about it, as this is most likely something you feel you have a personal connection with.
Step 3. Interview a colleague invited to the exhibition to ask him for his opinion
When you interview a colleague, start by asking general questions, then move on to more direct questions aimed at specific works in the exhibition.
- A general question could be “How often do you go to an exhibition?”. A more direct one is "What do you think is the most interesting aspect of the exhibition?" "Why exactly this?".
- Try to keep the colleague on topic and give a clear definition to the terms he uses. In addition, he tries to understand the process that leads him to formulate certain answers. It will help you structure your thoughts in the future.
- Ask your colleague how he finds out about art exhibits. Also ask him what his opinion is on the value of the works.
Step 4. Search for gallery information
Usually, art galleries and museums tend to exhibit only certain types of works, in order to maintain a unitary character and nurture their reputation. Grab some brochures, look at the gallery website and ask if it's possible to have a press kit.
- Conceptual galleries usually organize exhibitions focusing on important current issues.
- Other museums and galleries are more interested in specific technical characteristics of the works.
- Retrieve information about the gallery itself - how long the structure has existed, when it operates as a gallery, etc. Is it publicly funded?
Step 5. Think about why a particular artist's work has caught your attention, and what makes it different from others
Step 6. When interviewing an artist, make sure your opinions are based on concrete evidence
Don't be afraid to express an opinion, but be prepared to justify it.
- If you don't like a particular work, use the details in it to motivate your opinions, and compare it with the works of another artist you value most.
- If you like a work, think clearly what made it unique and fascinating in your eyes, try to understand what the artist's goals were and how they were achieved.
Advice
- You must always have materials with you to take notes and record conversations.
- Be polite when interviewing people.
- Don't overuse superlatives. If you fall into the trap of defining every work of art you see as "breathtaking", "magnificent" or "flawless", you will soon pass for a superficial and uninformed critic. Likewise, defining anything you don't like as "terrible", "disgusting" or "huge" will give you a bad reputation and will likely make some enemies.
- Stay informed on trends and new ideas in the art field. Read newspapers, magazines, blogs and Twitter accounts that carry the latest news from the art world.
- Do some research. Experts will liquidate you soon if you don't know the basics of art history and the contemporary art scene.
- Be open-minded. Don't go to an exhibition thinking you will hate it. Always try to be open to the idea of learning about new methods and concepts.
