Sotheby's institute of art

Writing for the Art World: Style and Substance

Writing about art is based on a sustained practice of rigorous analysis when first encountering an art object and the subsequent composition of prose that articulates that specific artwork’s aesthetic, social, and historical value.
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Length 1 to 3 months
Effort Self-paced
Price $ 1485
Subject Art, Design
Level Beginner
Languages English
Video Transcripts None
Writing about art is based on a sustained practice of rigorous analysis when first encountering an art object and the subsequent composition of prose that articulates that specific artwork’s aesthetic, social, and historical value. Through a close study of art objects and exhibitions, and by reading exemplary texts, you will master the fundamental requirements for writing about art. The course explores writing structure, tone, and point-of-view, as well as the professional vocabulary used to intelligently describe and analyze contemporary art exhibitions and practices under the guidance of the instructor, and in an exchange with fellow students via a mid-course peer workshop. This course also allows you to practice art writing by generating and revising your writing weekly, constructing a body of prose that will lead to a final essay. Please note this course is a writing workshop. Students should have a strong proficiency in the English language.

What you'll learn

What you will learn:

  • The types of contemporary art writings that contribute to exhibitions, auctions, and public conversations about art.

  • The vocabulary and writing techniques that apply to a variety of spheres that require a written analysis of art.

  • How to create, review, and complete a review, which could be used to showcase your writing skills and further your career in the arts.

Course syllabus

Week 1: Introduction to Art Writing

Week 2: The Essence of Successful Art Writing I: Tone and Structure

Week 3: The Essence of Successful Art Writing II: Voice and Craft

Week 4: History and Biography

Week 5: Getting to the Point

Week 6: Seeing and Writing the World

Meet the instructors

Aimee Walleston, Adjunct Faculty, Online

M.F.A., Art Criticism and Writing, School of Visual Arts; B.A., Writing, Literature, and the Arts in Context, Eugene Lang College

Aimee Walleston is New York City-based essayist and editor, who has worked for magazines including W, Interview, Jane and The Last Magazine. She has contributed reviews, essays, and interviews to numerous publications including Art in America, Flash Art, The Brooklyn Rail, T Magazine and CR Fashion Book. Previously, she held the position of an in-house casting director for photographer Bruce Weber.