An artist's cover letter is usually read by a curator, residency panel or client who will also see your images and CV. Its job is to connect your work to their programme: why this venue or opportunity, which pieces fit, and what you would do there. Most panels read many letters, so specific beats long.
The letter below is fictional. Replace every [bracketed] venue, work and date with your own, and follow any word limit in the call.
Artist cover letter (fictional)
Dear [Curator / Selection Panel],
I am applying for [the residency / open call / exhibition] at [Venue]. My work explores [subject, in one sentence], and [programme or past exhibition at the venue] is close to that focus.
The attached images include [Work 1] and [Work 2], made in [medium] in [year]. [Work 1] was [exhibited at / made for] [context].
During [the residency / exhibition] I would [plan: make, research or show], using [facilities or context the venue offers].
My CV and image list are attached. Thank you for considering my application.
Kind regards, [Your Name] · [Website] · [Email]
Artist cover letter vs artist statement
- The artist statement describes your work in general and stays the same across applications.
- The cover letter is written for one opportunity and explains the fit.
- Many calls ask for both. Do not paste the statement into the letter.
How long should an artist cover letter be?
Usually under a page, or the limit the call sets. Panels value clarity over length.
What should I attach?
Whatever the call asks for, typically a CV, an image list with titles, media, sizes and years, and a link to your portfolio.
Prepare the rest of the application with the artist CV example and a portfolio website, then write the letter in the cover letter builder.