The Art of Art Writing

blended course

This course is part of the Salzburg International Summer Academy of Fine Arts's 2021 programme.

Course leader

Louisa Elderton and Klaus Speidel

Target group

open to anyone interested in fine arts

Course aim

Are you an artist who integrates writing into your work? An art critic, art historian or journalist who writes about art? A student who wants to become a professional writer? A curator or gallerist who works with artists to articulate their practice? Perhaps you want to become more articulate when writing summaries of your practice for your website or a grant application, or maybe you simply want experiment and see where it goes. Whatever your experience or aims, this course gives you the opportunity to spend a dedicated period of time writing.

Focusing on the practice of writing and editing based on some theory, this course provides a solid introduction to art writing and a space for experimentation. Alternating between reading groups, writing exercises and shared-learning experiences, more intimate breakout rooms give the opportunity to share thoughts and questions in your primary language of German, French or English, during which time you will receive focused individual feedback. The online/offline presence of students from all around the world will be an extra opportunity for an enriching experience.

Together we produce different forms of art writing, from experimental vignettes to reviews, from exhibition texts to press releases, and even auto-fiction stories, all the while creating a safe and supportive space for feedback. Students explore how form, style, voice and narrative can be used to different effect, as well as the importance of editing when refining any text. We will also discuss how pitches can be shaped to get texts published.

The course offers personal working alongside like-minded people, with support and guidance from two experts with more than twenty years of art-writing experience. Placing art at the centre of the course, students learn the necessary tools for becoming their own breed of writer and getting excited and energized about exploring new directions.

*If necessary, the course may be held exclusively online.

Fee info

EUR 420: regular fee
EUR 340: reduced fee for students

Scholarships

Grant applications can be sent before 3 May.