Bios
If you’re asked to provide a bio, avoid the temptation to pack it with all of the details from your résumé. Keep it short, and emphasize your most impressive accomplishments by putting them first.
Elements for Visual Artists
- Important exhibitions
- Residencies and commissions
- Awards, grants, and collections
- Where you’ve studied
- Teachers and workshop leaders
- Reviews of your work
- Publications
- Upcoming projects
Elements for Performers
- Where you’ve performed
- Notable performance collaborators
- Where you’ve studied
- Teachers and master class leaders
- Special repertoire
- Awards, grants, and competitions
- Reviews of your work
- Publications or recordings
- Upcoming projects
Take a look at these professional bios for examples of how to write yours:
- Michelle Boulé—long bio from a Dance at Illinois alumna
- Lisa Gaye Dixon—short theatre-focused bio
- Rachel Fein Smolinski—artist bio
- Jupiter String Quartet—ensemble bio
Statements
Whether you’re putting a piece in an exhibition, performing your work, applying for a grant, or submitting an application for additional study, you may need to provide an artist’s statement. This material can explain your overall approach to your art or offer more specific information about an individual piece. You may need a variety of statements so that you have one to fit any scenario. This example statement from FAA alumna Ann B. Coddington will give you some ideas for how to shape yours.
Contact Info
If you’re looking for more guidance, set up an appointment with The Career Center to get personalized assistance and information on other campus resources. And don’t hesitate to contact FAA Career Services (faacareersvcs@illinois.edu) with questions about your professional goals.