Strategies for Artists & Performers
As an artist or performer, it’s often not enough to simply list your accomplishments (as is done on a conventional resume). Additional materials can be used both to demonstrate your talent and to communicate your sense of style.
Portfolios
Traditionally, portfolios have been large format books created by artists to showcase their work. However, with the continuing evolution of digital technology, more and more artists are also creating portfolios that can be viewed on-line or distributed on CD-ROMs.
Artistic in their own right, portfolios generally contain high-quality photographs of an artist’s creations, thoughtfully and stylishly presented. For non-electronic versions, artists may create a comprehensive portfolio showcasing a cross-section of their work that can be shown to curators, gallery owners, etc., but that will remain in their possession. In addition, artists can also develop smaller portfolios containing a selection of recent works intended to be given away to gallery owners and curators.
For more information on portfolios and marketing yourself as an artist, visit the New York Foundation for the Arts.
Career Services recommends that you consult with faculty and other experts for advice on creating a portfolio that will meet professional standards, as well as to assess whether additional or alternative materials should also be developed.
Bios
A “bio”, from the word biography, is just that – an account of key events related to your creative career. Designed to give a brief but favorable introduction to you and your work, bios can appear in programs printed for performances, packets that you send to the media, and materials that you give to potential employers.
Bios are typically written like a short article (and can be just one paragraph in length) in the third person. So, even though you will create your own bio, use “Mr.” or “Ms.” (accompanied by your family name) and “she” or “he.” Include not only high profile performances or accomplishments (such as awards or competition results) but also distinguished performers you’ve worked with and notable venues where you’ve performed. You may also choose to include brief personal and academic information – such as where you’re from and what you’re doing in school – but your performance information should be given the most attention.
For examples of bios, visit the faculty pages for music and dance.
Career Services recommends that you consult with faculty and other experts for advice on creating a bio that will meet professional standards, as well as to assess whether additional or alternative materials should also be created.
Headshots
A headshot is an 8”X10” photograph that helps performers market themselves as professionals to both potential employers and the media. As a marketing tool, they should convey your energy and enthusiasm – giving an insight into the power you can bring to a performance.
As their name suggests, headshots are usually composed to frame the performer’s face. However, musicians may want to choose a wider view so as to include their instrument in the photo.
Check with people you trust (e.g. faculty and other performers) to get suggestions for a reputable photographer, and review the portfolio of any photographers you consider to assess their work. Before making a commitment, make sure you understand what the costs will be and what you’ll get in return (e.g. thirty stills to choose from, a set number of prints, etc.).
Career Services recommends that you consult with faculty and other experts for advice on creating a headshot that will meet professional standards, as well as to assess whether additional or alternative materials should also be created.
