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Fine Art Personal Statement Guide

One of the most significant decisions of your adult life will be choosing where to go to university and what to study. Most of us have many and varied interests, as well as strong feelings about where’s best not only to nurture our interests but also to live while we’re doing it, so settling on a choice can be tough.

That said, you’re undoubtedly reading this because you’ve thought about what you’d like to study and maybe even concluded it will be Fine Art. Congratulations!

Once you’ve worked out where you’d like to pursue this, the next step is applying, and your personal statement is one of the most important parts of this . It’s a challenge to write because it has to cover a lot of ground in a small space, but the trick is to approach it methodically and to tackle it systematically.

This guide will help you to achieve this by taking you through the following steps, so you end up with a compelling and informative personal statement:

• Why are Personal Statements Important?
• What Should I Include in a Fine Art Personal Statement?  
• What Should I Avoid in a Fine Art   Personal Statement ?  
• Advice on How to Start a Fine Art Personal Statement
• Advice on How to Finish a Fine Art Personal Statement

What Should I Avoid in a Fine Art Personal Statement ?  

Don’t begin your statement with a sweeping comment about art’s universality, or with a quotation from an artist or critic. This sort of opening adds nothing and, in fact, negatively impacts how you come across as a potential student. Equally detrimental are any clichés about you and art, overly informal language, and dramatic statements of any sort .

You should also avoid including irrelevancies, both curricular and extracurricular, and anything too personal – this isn’t an autobiography. Remember to stay close to the subject and to express your passion for Fine Art as simply and directly as you can.

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Advice on How to Start a Fine Art Personal Statement  

To make your statement as effective as possible, you should open it by setting out your interest in art and why you’d like to study Fine Art at university.

Clarity is key, so don’t over-complicate matters; it’s enough just to be honest and straightforward about your reasons. That said, originality and flair always make a statement more impactful, so consider how you can adopt a personal and unique angle that marks you out as different from all other applicants.

The first impression is a lasting impression, which means the reader is likely to draw some conclusions after reading the first paragraph. That means you should ensure your statement’s beginning achieves what it sets out to and that you’re happy with its portrayal of you.

Advice on How to Finish a Fine Art Personal Statement  

Finishing your Fine Art personal statement can, to some extent, reflect the finishing of your Fine Art degree. By the end of three years, you’re likely to have compiled a portfolio of pieces, have exhibited one or several at a final degree show, and have undertaken an extended piece of writing.

Your statement can mention how you’re looking forward to having amassed this critical work by the end of your time at university and talk about the skills you’ll have developed along the way. The statement’s conclusion should also unite your various lines of argument concerning interest, preparedness, and motivation , so the reader feels confident in choosing you as their next student.

• What are some Tips for Writing a Strong Fine Art Personal Statement?
• How Long Should my Fine Art Personal Statement Be?
• What Kind of Extracurricular Activities Should I Include in my Fine Art Personal Statement?
• How Can I Tailor my Fine Art Personal Statement to the Oxford Course?

As you’re applying to do a thoroughly practical course, albeit one underpinned by theory, it’s recommended you talk to some extent in your statement about work you’ve created, the skills that you’ve acquired through this, and their future application to your degree. It’s also a good idea to reflect on who and what your influences and inspirations are, as this will show your awareness of how your work is impacted by that of others. No one creates art in a vacuum, so don’t be afraid to share this.

Think about what makes your work unique and how it has evolved over time. You’re more than likely to have taken inspiration from different people and places at different times, so alluding to this evolution will show you to be analytical and reflective. It’s also a good idea to mention how you respond creatively in your own work to what you see and hear elsewhere, for example through museum and gallery visits.

Your personal statement will be limited, like everyone else’s, to 4000 characters (including spaces) or to 47 lines of the UCAS form, whichever you reach first. This might seem overly restrictive for such an important application, but remember that your application will comprise other elements too, and it’s good practice for later when you have to express your thoughts succinctly in essays.

There are some obvious extracurricular activities that all Fine Art applicants will include in their statements, such as visits to exhibitions, their own artistic endeavours, and wide reading around the subject. All of these are fine, and by all means put them in. However, if you can also add something a bit more unusual, for example you helped to date a painting through mass spectrometry, or assisted with the restoration of a medieval fresco, then that will help you to stand out in a unique way. Whatever you decide to include, ensure it has some direct relevance to the application as you can’t afford to waste words on content that won’t be valued by admissions tutors.

A strong academic record and incontestable interest in art go without saying, but you should also display a capacity for taking on large amounts of information and using it judiciously for your own ends, for working independently and in collaboration with others, and for extensive reflection on your own work.

Finally, being at ease with the theory as much as the practice of art is paramount as you’ll be expected to use the one to inform the other as you progress through the course.

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29 September 2023

6 minutes read

Artist Statement of Purpose Examples: Crafting Your Fine Art Personal Statement

Dirghayu Kaushik

When it comes to pursuing a career in fine art, a well-crafted artist statement of purpose can be your ticket to success. Whether you’re applying for an MFA, BFA, or a position in the art world, your personal statement holds the key to showcasing your passion, creativity, and dedication.

In this comprehensive guide, we will dive deep into artist statement of purpose examples, helping you understand how to articulate your love for art effectively and create a compelling personal statement.

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• The Importance of a Personal Statement

Your personal statement, often interchangeably referred to as a statement of purpose (SOP), is your opportunity to tell your unique story as an artist. It allows admissions committees or potential employers to get to know you beyond your portfolio or resume.

Your personal statement should convey your artistic journey, influences, experiences, and future aspirations. It’s a chance to make a lasting impression and demonstrate why you are a perfect fit for your chosen fine art program or career in the art world.

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• Crafting a Captivating Introduction

Personal Statement

Your personal statement should begin with a captivating introduction that immediately grabs the reader’s attention. Think of it as the opening scene in a captivating movie. Here’s an example:

“Art has always been my muse, guiding my life’s path towards creative expression. From the moment I held a paintbrush, I knew that art was more than just colors on a canvas; it was a form of storytelling, a means to connect with the world and express the deepest facets of my being.”

Expressing Your Love for Fine Art

Your introduction should convey your deep-seated love for fine art. You can talk about when and how your passion for art first ignited. Maybe it was a childhood memory of visiting an art museum, or perhaps you had an inspiring art teacher who encouraged your creativity. Sharing this personal connection with art can draw readers into your narrative.

Defining Your Artistic Identity

In the introduction, you should also touch upon what makes your artistic identity unique. What sets you apart as an artist? Do you have a signature style, technique, or theme that defines your work? This is the time to provide a glimpse into what makes your art special.

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• Sharing Concrete Examples of Your Work and Experiences

Statement Examples

Once you’ve captured your reader’s attention with a compelling introduction, it’s time to delve into the heart of your personal statement by sharing concrete examples of your work and experiences. This section should showcase your artistic journey and demonstrate your dedication to your craft.

Highlighting Artistic Milestones

In this section, you can mention significant milestones in your artistic journey. These could include exhibitions, awards, or collaborations that have shaped your development as an artist. For instance:

“Over the years, I have had the privilege of showcasing my work in prestigious galleries and museums, such as the Tate Modern in London. These opportunities not only exposed my art to a wider audience but also pushed me to constantly evolve as an artist.”

By highlighting these achievements, you demonstrate your commitment to your art and your ability to thrive in the competitive art world.

Discussing Artistic Influences

Artists are often inspired by the work of others. Share the artists or artworks that have influenced your creative process. You might mention famous painters, sculptors, or contemporary artists whose work resonates with you. Explaining how these influences have shaped your artistic perspective can provide insight into your unique approach to art.

Detailing Your Educational Background

If you’ve pursued formal education in fine art, whether it’s an undergraduate degree, a BFA, or an MFA, this is the place to discuss it. Talk about your academic journey, the courses that had a profound impact on you, and any mentors who guided your artistic growth. Be sure to convey how your education has contributed to your development as an artist.

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• Exploring Specific Interests and Influences

Art and Design Personal Statement

Art is a vast and diverse field, and this section allows you to explore your specific interests and influences in greater detail. Whether you’re passionate about painting, sculpture, graphic design, or any other art form, here’s where you can delve into the heart of your creative focus.

Passion for a Specific Art Form

Share your deep-seated passion for your chosen art form. Explain why you are drawn to it and how it allows you to express yourself. For example:

“My fascination with seascapes and the fragility of nature has been a recurring theme in my work. It’s a subject that allows me to explore the vastness and immensity of the natural world while conveying its fragility.”

Artistic Inspirations

Discuss the artists or movements that have had a profound impact on your work within your chosen art form. Whether it’s the abstract expressionism of Jackson Pollock or the precision of Renaissance art, detailing these influences adds depth to your personal statement.

Your Creative Process

Take the reader on a journey through your creative process. How do you approach your work? Do you start with sketches, embrace spontaneity, or meticulously plan each piece? Sharing your process can provide insight into your artistic mindset.

• Articulating Your Goals and Aspirations

Fine Art Personal Statement

Your personal statement should not only reflect on your past but also look to the future. What are your artistic goals and aspirations? Where do you see yourself in the art world? This section allows you to articulate your vision and ambition as an artist.

Short-Term Goals

Discuss your immediate goals within the art world. Whether it’s participating in specific exhibitions, collaborating with fellow artists, or mastering a new technique, these short-term objectives reveal your drive and commitment.

Long-Term Aspirations

Take a broader view and share your long-term aspirations. Do you dream of curating your own gallery, teaching art to the next generation, or becoming an internationally recognized artist? Expressing these ambitions paints a vivid picture of your future in the art world.

Why This Program or Career?

If you’re applying to a specific program, be it an MFA or a job opportunity, explain why it’s the perfect fit for your artistic journey. Mention how the program’s curriculum, faculty, or mission align with your goals.

• Tailoring Your Statement for MFA and BFA Applications

MFA and BFA

Depending on whether you’re applying for a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) program, there are specific elements to emphasize in your personal statement.

MFA Program Emphasis

For MFA applicants, emphasize your commitment to furthering your craft and the advanced level of artistry you bring to the table. Discuss your readiness for the intensive program and your eagerness to engage in critical discourse with fellow artists.

“Enrolling in the MFA program at [University Name] is a natural step in my journey to become a professional artist. I am ready to immerse myself in a community of dedicated artists, engage in rigorous critiques, and push the boundaries of my creative practice.”

BFA Program Emphasis

Similarly, BFA applicants should convey their passion and readiness to embark on their educational journey. Highlight your enthusiasm for learning and your willingness to explore various aspects of fine art.

“I am eager to embark on the BFA program, where I can continue to refine my graphic design and photography skills. This program’s focus on nurturing emerging artists aligns perfectly with my goals of honing my craft and exploring new artistic horizons.”

• Showcasing Your Love for Art History

Art History

For those with a passion for art history, your personal statement should reflect your deep love for the subject and your desire to explore its intricacies.

Unearthing Art Historical Insights

Share your favorite periods, artists, or art movements within the scope of art history. Discuss why you find these aspects particularly fascinating and how they have influenced your perspective.

“Art history has been my guiding light in understanding the evolution of artistic expression. I am particularly captivated by the Romantic period and its emphasis on emotion, individualism, and nature, as seen in the works of artists like Caspar David Friedrich.”

Academic Pursuits

If you’re applying for graduate studies in art history, discuss your academic interests and the areas of art history you wish to explore further. Mention any research projects, papers, or presentations that showcase your dedication to the field.

“ During my undergraduate studies, I delved into the complexities of American art history. My thesis on the impact of Abstract Expressionism on post-war American society was a testament to my commitment to scholarly pursuits in this field .”

• Conclusion: Crafting Your Artistic Narrative

Crafting a compelling artist statement of purpose is an art form in itself. By drawing inspiration from these examples and infusing your personal experiences, you can create a statement that reflects your passion for fine art.

Remember, your personal statement is your opportunity to shine and convey why you are a perfect fit for your chosen fine art program or career in the art world.

In closing, let your personal statement be a testament to your love for art and your unwavering commitment to the world of creativity. Use it as a canvas to paint your story, one brushstroke at a time, and let your passion shine through every word. Your artistic journey begins with your statement of purpose, so make it a masterpiece.

With this comprehensive guide, you now have the tools and inspiration to craft a personal statement that leaves a lasting impression and sets you on a path toward success in the world of fine art. Embrace your creativity, share your story, and let your love for art guide you on this incredible artistic journey.

What should I include in my artist statement of purpose?

Your statement should cover your artistic journey, influences, experiences, and future aspirations. Use concrete examples to illustrate your passion for fine art.

How long should my personal statement be?

Aim for a concise statement, typically around 500-800 words. Be sure to follow any specific word limit guidelines provided by the institution or program.

Can I use samples of my work in my statement?

Absolutely! Including images or descriptions of your work can add depth to your statement and showcase your artistic abilities.

Should I mention specific artists or artworks that inspire me?

Yes, mentioning artists or artworks that have influenced you can provide insight into your artistic perspective and passion.

How important is the artist statement in the application process?

Your personal statement is a crucial component of your application. It allows admissions committees to understand your unique voice, passion, and suitability for their program.

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Table of Contents

• • The Importance of a Personal Statement
• • Crafting a Captivating Introduction
• • Sharing Concrete Examples of Your Work and Experiences
• • Exploring Specific Interests and Influences
• • Articulating Your Goals and Aspirations
• • Tailoring Your Statement for MFA and BFA Applications
• • Showcasing Your Love for Art History
• • Conclusion: Crafting Your Artistic Narrative

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• Personal Statements

Art and Design Personal Statement

Sample Statement

For as long as I can remember I have been creative and enjoyed drawing. At an early age I could be found doodling or colouring in any piece of paper I could get my hands on, including my mother’s bank statements!

A defining moment in my creative career was visiting the National Portrait Gallery for the first time as a young child. The idea of generations of important historical figures being brought together under one roof all in the name of art fascinated me.

I excelled in art and craft projects during primary school, something which continued throughout my educational career as I took on several ambitious mixed media projects during my GCSE and ‘A’ Level years.

The formal study of Art and Design during my time at school has equipped me with the skill set to use a variety of techniques and materials. However, I still feel that I have a long journey ahead of me to become the artist I wish to be, and that a place on the Art and Design course would help me achieve my goals.

Outside of school I spend a lot of time taking photographs, visiting galleries and museums, and reading graphic novels. I have also taken an animation course independently to further explore the way this style of art is used.

I hope to travel, UK and abroad, more during my time at university as I feel this opens up new opportunities and provides a huge amount of inspiration.

Having volunteered at my local gallery I understand the business aspects associated with being an artist, holding exhibitions, and conducting sales and deals. My time with the gallery also taught me a lot about the correct way to display art, sculptures, and installations.

I very much look forward to honing my craft with a group of like-minded people and discovering how their interpretations either agree, or are in conflict with, my own.

After completing the course I hope to have produced work worthy of being submitted to galleries and aim to become a gallery curator and working artist. 

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Fine Art BA (Hons) Degree Personal Statement

• Reading time: 3 minutes
• Price: Free download
• Published: 6th July 2023
• Word count: 708 words
• File format: Text

Art has always been an integral part of my life, a medium through which I can express my deepest emotions and explore the boundless realm of creativity. It is with immense excitement and a profound love for visual expression that I apply for the BA (Hons) Fine Art degree at [University]. This degree offers a transformative opportunity to refine my artistic skills, challenge conventions, and immerse myself in the vibrant world of contemporary art.

I have chosen to pursue a degree in Fine Art because it aligns perfectly with my passion for self-expression and my desire to push the boundaries of artistic exploration. Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently gravitated towards visual arts, experimenting with various mediums, techniques, and styles. The program presents a unique opportunity to deepen my understanding of artistic concepts, engage in critical discourse, and develop a distinct artistic voice.

What excites me most about Fine Art is the freedom to explore and communicate ideas in a visually compelling and thought-provoking manner. The ability to convey complex narratives, emotions, and social commentary through artistic expression is an incredibly powerful tool. Whether it is through painting, sculpture, or multimedia installations, I am eager to experiment and engage with diverse art forms, harnessing their potential to evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, and ignite conversations.

Throughout my artistic journey, I have drawn inspiration from a multitude of sources, ranging from personal experiences to global socio-political issues. For instance, my recent series of paintings explores the themes of identity and belonging, reflecting on the complexities of cultural assimilation and the search for a sense of self in an increasingly globalized world. By intertwining layers of vibrant colors and intricate brushwork, I aim to create visual narratives that resonate with viewers and encourage introspection.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have actively sought opportunities to showcase my artwork and engage with the art community. Last year, I participated in a local art exhibition, where my mixed-media installation exploring environmental conservation garnered significant attention. By repurposing discarded materials, I aimed to draw attention to the pressing need for sustainable practices and reflect on humanity’s impact on the natural world. The exhibition provided me with invaluable feedback, exposure, and connections within the art community, reinforcing my dedication to pursuing a career in Fine Art.

One achievement that I am particularly proud of is winning a prestigious art competition in my region. The competition challenged artists to respond to the theme of “Art as a Catalyst for Change.” My winning artwork was a large-scale installation that combined interactive elements, projection mapping, and sculpture to provoke reflection on social justice issues. This recognition not only boosted my confidence as an artist but also highlighted the potential of art to inspire dialogue, challenge norms, and effect positive change.

What sets me apart as an ideal candidate for this degree are my artistic versatility, dedication, and willingness to experiment. I have developed proficiency in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, and digital art. Moreover, my strong work ethic and discipline enable me to devote long hours to my creative process, continuously refining my technical skills and exploring new artistic territories. I am also adept at receiving constructive criticism and using it as a catalyst for growth and self-improvement.

Looking ahead, I am committed to establishing myself as a professional artist and contributing to the contemporary art landscape. With this degree, I aspire to participate in international art exhibitions, collaborate with other artists, and engage with diverse communities. I aim to create artwork that sparks conversations, challenges societal norms, and invites viewers to question their own perceptions and experiences. Through my artistic practice, I strive to inspire empathy and foster meaningful connections between individuals from different backgrounds and cultures.

In conclusion, my deep passion for Fine Art, my artistic achievements, practical experiences, and dedication to pushing artistic boundaries make me an ideal candidate for studying this degree at [University]. I am eager to immerse myself in a rigorous academic environment, engage in critical discourse, and refine my artistic skills under the guidance of experienced faculty and fellow artists. I am committed to making a lasting impact through my artwork, contributing to the rich tapestry of contemporary art, and inspiring others through the power of visual expression.

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Personal statement advice

Your personal statement.

As part of your application to UCA - or any university - you'll need to write a personal statement. This is a really crucial part of the process as it tells us so much about you and gives you a chance to show us why you'd be a great fit for your chosen course.

What you put into your statement, and how, is really crucial - here's our advice on how to make your statement really count.

Research, research research!

We want to know why you want to study the course you've chosen, how it'll enrich your learning and future career, and also why you think UCA is an ideal place for you. So it's really important you do plenty of research to support your statement. Ask yourself the following questions as you go, and use what you find to build your statement.

• What are your interests in the subject area? Why do you want to come and study the course?
• Why do you think you’re the ideal applicant for this course? Include any skills or work you have done that supports this.
• Why would you like to study at UCA? How do you think you’ll benefit from joining our community?
• What is it particularly about UCA and the course here which appeals to you?
• What are your future career goals, where do you hope to be at the end of the course and in the future, and how will studying at UCA help you to achieve these goals?

Great personal statements also include a bit of your personality - put your stamp on it by including any experiences you've had that are relevant to the course you want to study, any work experience, any transferable skills you have, and your hobbies and interests.

It would also be good to see your critical thinking skills.

Keeping the reader gripped...

As with all great stories, there's a beginning, a middle, and an end - and the same goes for your personal statement.

Start your statement with an introduction about you - who you are, why you want to study your chosen course at UCA.

The middle section is the crucial part that contains all the information you want to tell us about your experiences, previous studies and skills that make you suitable for the course.

Finish up with more about yourself - your hobbies and interests.

Finally, make sure your writing has a good structure, with accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation. Read it out loud to test it, and don't forget to make sure everything you say relates to the course you’re applying to and your chosen career path.

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Fine Art BA Honours

Study our practice-based course in contemporary visual art for ambitious, motivated and imaginative artists.

Your guide from application to interview

Learn more about the application process, what we look for in applicants, and how to submit your work.

In this guide we'll go through:

• writing your personal statement
• a guide to submitting your portfolio and what to expect during the interview
• a tour of our Fine Art studios and workshops with current students
• an interview with one of our recent graduates, Joy Labinjo
• examples of student work
• how to find out more about the University and our Student Services

Writing your personal statement

Our top tips for writing your Fine Art BA personal statement:

• Connect your statement to the work in your portfolio
• Use straightforward and clear language
• Make a list of the points you want to make, then expand on them
• Don’t worry about word length at first

What happens next

Once we receive your application, we will email you to ask you to upload a digital portfolio to the Apply to Newcastle portal . This, along with your application, is how we decide if we wish to invite you to an interview. Our inspection of your work is a very important part of the selection process.

Find out more about this in the Submitting your portfolio section below

If you are successful at the portfolio stage, we will invite you for interview. You can choose to have either an in person or an online interview.

If it is an in person interview you will need to bring a physical portfolio with you.

If you are unsuccessful, we will notify you via UCAS.

Your portfolio

The portfolio should include coursework of any format, but also – very importantly – work you have initiated yourself.

We are looking for work that demonstrates:

• creativity, enthusiasm, commitment and excitement about making art
• ability to study through looking – e.g. drawings or paintings made from observation
• sustained development and exploration of ideas or themes using different approaches and media

What we look for

We are not just looking for ‘finished’ work. We are interested in seeing  where your ideas come from  and how they develop.

We expect to see:

• work in progress
• sketchbooks
• working drawings
• more resolved drawings, paintings, sculptures, videos
• details of work eg close ups of sections of paintings
• work from non 'fine art' parts of your programme: eg design, photography, fashion, media
• work from outside of your studies: eg any extra classes/workshops you have done, work you do on your own, a video you might have for a band, stage design for a theatre company etc
• we will look at video and listen to sound work either sent as files or as links to Vimeo etc

Don’t worry too much about making your portfolio look ‘professional’. We are only interested in the work and seeing what you are interested in. For example, a simple label beneath each work with the title, medium (i.e. ‘page from sketchbook’, ‘acrylic painting’, ‘screenprint’) and dimensions is enough.

Your portfolio should include 30-50 images of work  and can include links to video. It must be saved as a PDF and uploaded to the Apply to Newcastle Portal.

Submitting your portfolio

When to submit your portfolio.

You should aim to submit your portfolio in January before the UCAS deadline of 31 January. 

It is also possible to submit later but you may have to wait longer for a decision.  However, after 1 March, we will consider rejecting your application if you have not uploaded a portfolio.

If you anticipate submitting a portfolio after 1 March, you need to let us know by emailing  [email protected]

How to submit your portfolio

Once you have created your portfolio, ideally as a PowerPoint presentation, you must save it as one PDF file. You should then upload it to the   Apply to Newcastle Portal . Please do not upload individual images to the Portal.

The PDF should be no larger than 30MB. Please download our  Portfolio Size Reduction Guide  (PDF: 0.8MB) to find out how to manage the file size of images in your portfolio.

Step 1. Register to access the  Apply to Newcastle Portal Step 2. Click on  Upload Documents  next to your application to W150 Fine Art BA Honours Step 3. Click  Upload Document Step 4. In the  Document type  drop down menu, choose  Portfolio . Your course should automatically populate, but if you are applying to more than one degree, please choose the Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Fine Art in the  Your course (Choice)  drop down menu Step 5. Click  Choose Files  and attach your file Step 6. Click  Save & Close

Your portfolio will display in the  Documents Uploaded  section. You can view the document by clicking  View . Please note the Portfolio will take 15 minutes to disappear from the  Documents Required  section. Your status will then change to Awaiting Decision.

Late applications (received after 31 January 2024)

We will consider late applications for this degree programme. We will email you when we receive your application. We would expect you to upload your portfolio within two weeks of receiving the email.

If you are successful at the portfolio stage we will email to invite you to interview.

You can choose to have either an in person or an online interview. If it is an in person interview you will need to bring a physical portfolio with you.

These are usually held in the Art School and include a tour of the department, but they may be online.

You will be able to choose your interview slot from a range of dates and times. 

The majority of interviews take place by the end of March, but we do add additional later interviews, if necessary. If for any reason you’re not able to make any of the dates offered, please email us at [email protected] so we can make alternative arrangements.

You can send us additional work made after you first sent us your portfolio. You can email us an additional PDF of images, an updated PDF of your portfolio to the Apply to Newcastle Portal , or you can send us an updated PDF of your portfolio.

If you have been inspired by recent visits to galleries or exhibitions you may wish to include material that will prompt discussion.

What to expect in your interview

• the interview lasts around  20 to 30 minutes
• you’ll be  interviewed by two members of staff  and a current student
• if your interview is on campus, you’ll be taken on a tour of the department by the student on the interview panel. If it is online, you'll be able to watch a video of a student-led tour
• it’s a chance for you to  discuss your work and interests  with us
• we are interested in finding out about  your previous learning experience , your interests, and the work you have brought to show us
• we may ask you to talk about particular pieces of work or a project which has been very important to you
• we are keen to find out if you are likely to benefit from the course, and whether we offer the kind of environment in which you will thrive
• you will have plenty of opportunities to ask questions about the course, department, University and the city
• you’ll be able to  talk with other current students,  either in person or online, so you can decide whether this is the right course for you

If you have any questions about applying to Fine Art BA Honours please email us at  [email protected]

Fine Art tour

Join some of our BA Fine Art students on a tour of our fantastic facilities. In this video you'll find our more about:

• The Hatton Gallery
• student studios
• social spaces, such as the student-lead Art Cafe
• our wide range of on-campus casting, print, metal, and wood work facilities
• our team of Technicians and how they can support the work you do

Career Development

Integrated with the studio practice and running throughout the four years of the degree, LifeWorkArt is our unique professional development programme. It develops your understanding of the art world beyond university and of working in different areas of the Creative Industries sector.

In this video our recent graduate, Joy Labinjo, talks about her journey since University

Find out more about LifeWorkArt, and the typical careers our Fine Art graduates go into

Examples of student work

You might be interested in watching this video slideshow of examples of work completed by our Fine Art BA students.

It includes:

• installation

Student health and wellbeing is a priority in the department. You will have a designated Personal Tutor who will be a point of contact throughout your studies. Your Personal Tutor is there to offer advice, discuss any problems or difficulties that arise and signpost other support offered across the university. This includes support with:

• mental health
• student wellbeing
• disabilities and specialist learning

Personal Tutors can also guide you through the process of applying for adjustments such as extensions for assignments when they are needed due to personal extenuating circumstances.

Visit the University's student wellbeing web page for further information

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How to write an effective UCAS personal statement

Personal statement top tops

For many students, writing a compelling personal statement for their UCAS application is a daunting prospect. Louise Evans,  Head of Adviser Experience at UCAS, shares her top tips for writing an effective personal statement below.

The personal statement is an important part of the UCAS application. It’s a student’s opportunity to describe their ambitions, skills, and experience. However, it’s often the part of the application they also worry about the most.

If they’re in need of some inspiration, then look no further – here are the best places to pick up a pointer or two.

1. The UCAS website

Planning should start on the UCAS website . There are tips on how to get started and what to include. It also covers technical aspects to bear in mind, such as the character count.

2. Personal statement timeline

The  personal statement timeline is really useful. It’s packed with advice on how to spread out the planning and writing stages so there’s no last minute panicking.

3. Our blog

A few years ago we asked university admissions tutors to tell us what they’re looking for in the personal statement .

4. Teachers and tutors

Teachers and tutors are well placed to know a student’s strengths and can point out areas and skills a student may not have considered, but are really relevant.

5. Open days

Open days are not only a chance to find out what a university has to offer, but also to find out what they expect from their students. If at all possible students should make the time to visit a university and ask as many questions as they can. Course tutors can offer advice on what they like to see in personal statements, and what can help somebody stand out from the crowd. Find out when open days are happening in our  open days search .

6. Video guide

This video with Jane Marshall from Imperial College has everything a student needs to know about how to write a personal statement. In less than five minutes you can get some great tips.

7. Personal statement mind map

Although it might look a bit chaotic, this personal statement mind map is a great way for a student to get their thoughts in order .

7. Search for course details 

Every course that can be applied for is listed in our search tool , together with entry requirements and a description of what it covers. Students can find the courses they’re interested in and try to match up their strengths and experiences to the course requirements.

8. Friends and family

Once they’ve drafted their personal statement, get your students to read it aloud to people they trust. They’ll be able to offer fresh insight into how the statement flows and any areas that might have been missed.

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Personal Statement: tips and hints

Your UCAS Personal Statement outlines why you want to study a particular course at university and is an opportunity for you to demonstrate you have the skills, knowledge and experience to succeed on the course.

It's an opportunity for the university to find out more about you, your academic achievements, your interests and your motivation(s) for studying at Higher Education level. This’ll then help them decide whether to offer you a place.

How important is a Personal Statement?

• courses are increasingly competitive
• it prepares you for future job applications
• not all universities interview
• it’s your opportunity to sell yourself.

Remember, your Personal Statement is important but it’s not everything: it’s just one part of the overall picture.

Getting Started

How to sell yourself in the right way.

• You can only write one personal statement, so don’t mention a university or college by name.
• Check university and college websites to see what skills and qualities they’d like you to have.
• Make a list of things you want to include.
• Start drafting early.

What's being looked for?

• Students with the academic potential to benefit from the course.
• Students who are motivated towards studying this particular kind of course.
• Students with relevant experience for the course.
• The personal skills a student can bring to the course.
• The interests that a student has.
• an understanding of the course you're applying to
• an idea of why you want to study the course/subject
• your passion/interest
• key influences on your work
• knowledge of the subject
• your experience.
• an understanding of the course
• independent study skills
• self-awareness
• motivation and commitment
• good literacy and numeracy
• research skills
• essay writing, don’t write lists
• enthusiasm – going beyond the norm
• time management skills
• reflective thinking.

A ctivity: what have you done? 'I mentor younger students at an after school photography class'.

B enefit: what skills have you gained? ' This shows I have good communication and team working skills'.

C ourse: how will this prepare you for the course? ' This is relevant to Photography as being able to communicate effectively is an important skill when working with models and hair and make-up artists on shoots but also when doing group project work '.

Points to remember:

• strong opening paragraph and conclusion
• research into the courses will help you
• 80% academic, 20% extra curricular
• draft, redraft, and proof read – get someone else to read over it, too
• there’s no perfect statement.

Dos and don'ts

• apply for a course you really want to study
• be yourself: tell the truth about your interests
• sell yourself: this is not the time for modesty
• keep a copy of your personal statement and reread it before your interview – this may be used as a starting point for conversation
• read the UCAS guidance on personal statements.
• be tempted to make anything up, as you might be asked about it at the interview
• copy anyone else’s personal statement – UCAS uses plagiarism detection software
• list qualifications like your GCSE grades or anything else that’s covered elsewhere on the application
• just list your other achievements: you need to evaluate them
• feel the need to be dramatic in order to be memorable.

For more information, check out the UCAS website for handy tools and tips .

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Many employers and educational institutions will ask you to apply online using their application form. In this form you will likely need to provide basic information about yourself, as well as provide evidence of your skills and motivation through answering questions or writing a personal statement.

Preparing to write an application form

Includes information on how to research the opportunity and how to reflect on how you meet the requirements.

Find out more

Answering application form questions

Advice on how to answer motivational and competency-based questions in an application form.

Writing a personal statement

Advice on how to structure a personal statement effectively for job, placement and internship opportunities.

Applications for further study and research

Specific advice on personal statements for postgraduate research, research posts and how to structure research proposals.

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The University of Chicago The Law School

Innovation clinic—significant achievements for 2023-24.

The Innovation Clinic continued its track record of success during the 2023-2024 school year, facing unprecedented demand for our pro bono services as our reputation for providing high caliber transactional and regulatory representation spread. The overwhelming number of assistance requests we received from the University of Chicago, City of Chicago, and even national startup and venture capital communities enabled our students to cherry-pick the most interesting, pedagogically valuable assignments offered to them. Our focus on serving startups, rather than all small- to medium-sized businesses, and our specialization in the needs and considerations that these companies have, which differ substantially from the needs of more traditional small businesses, has proven to be a strong differentiator for the program both in terms of business development and prospective and current student interest, as has our further focus on tackling idiosyncratic, complex regulatory challenges for first-of-their kind startups. We are also beginning to enjoy more long-term relationships with clients who repeatedly engage us for multiple projects over the course of a year or more as their legal needs develop.

This year’s twelve students completed over twenty projects and represented clients in a very broad range of industries: mental health and wellbeing, content creation, medical education, biotech and drug discovery, chemistry, food and beverage, art, personal finance, renewable energy, fintech, consumer products and services, artificial intelligence (“AI”), and others. The matters that the students handled gave them an unparalleled view into the emerging companies and venture capital space, at a level of complexity and agency that most junior lawyers will not experience until several years into their careers.

Representative Engagements

While the Innovation Clinic’s engagements are highly confidential and cannot be described in detail, a high-level description of a representative sample of projects undertaken by the Innovation Clinic this year includes:

Transactional/Commercial Work

• A previous client developing a symptom-tracking wellness app for chronic disease sufferers engaged the Innovation Clinic again, this time to restructure its cap table by moving one founder’s interest in the company to a foreign holding company and subjecting the holding company to appropriate protections in favor of the startup.
• Another client with whom the Innovation Clinic had already worked several times engaged us for several new projects, including (1) restructuring their cap table and issuing equity to an additional, new founder, (2) drafting several different forms of license agreements that the company could use when generating content for the platform, covering situations in which the company would license existing content from other providers, jointly develop new content together with contractors or specialists that would then be jointly owned by all creators, or commission contractors to make content solely owned by the company, (3) drafting simple agreements for future equity (“Safes”) for the company to use in its seed stage fundraising round, and (4) drafting terms of service and a privacy policy for the platform.
• Yet another repeat client, an internet platform that supports independent artists by creating short films featuring the artists to promote their work and facilitates sales of the artists’ art through its platform, retained us this year to draft a form of independent contractor agreement that could be used when the company hires artists to be featured in content that the company’s Fortune 500 brand partners commission from the company, and to create capsule art collections that could be sold by these Fortune 500 brand partners in conjunction with the content promotion.
• We worked with a platform using AI to accelerate the Investigational New Drug (IND) approval and application process to draft a form of license agreement for use with its customers and an NDA for prospective investors.
• A novel personal finance platform for young, high-earning individuals engaged the Innovation Clinic to form an entity for the platform, including helping the founders to negotiate a deal among them with respect to roles and equity, terms that the equity would be subject to, and other post-incorporation matters, as well as to draft terms of service and a privacy policy for the platform.
• Students also formed an entity for a biotech therapeutics company founded by University of Chicago faculty members and an AI-powered legal billing management platform founded by University of Chicago students.
• A founder the Innovation Clinic had represented in connection with one venture engaged us on behalf of his other venture team to draft an equity incentive plan for the company as well as other required implementing documentation. His venture with which we previously worked also engaged us this year to draft Safes to be used with over twenty investors in a seed financing round.

More information regarding other types of transactional projects that we typically take on can be found here .

Regulatory Research and Advice

• A team of Innovation Clinic students invested a substantial portion of our regulatory time this year performing highly detailed and complicated research into public utilities laws of several states to advise a groundbreaking renewable energy technology company as to how its product might be regulated in these states and its clearest path to market. This project involved a review of not only the relevant state statutes but also an analysis of the interplay between state and federal statutes as it relates to public utilities law, the administrative codes of the relevant state executive branch agencies, and binding and non-binding administrative orders, decisions and guidance from such agencies in other contexts that could shed light on how such states would regulate this never-before-seen product that their laws clearly never contemplated could exist. The highly varied approach to utilities regulation in all states examined led to a nuanced set of analysis and recommendations for the client.
• In another significant research project, a separate team of Innovation Clinic students undertook a comprehensive review of all settlement orders and court decisions related to actions brought by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau for violations of the prohibition on unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts and practices under the Consumer Financial Protection Act, as well as selected relevant settlement orders, court decisions, and other formal and informal guidance documents related to actions brought by the Federal Trade Commission for violations of the prohibition on unfair or deceptive acts or practices under Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act, to assemble a playbook for a fintech company regarding compliance. This playbook, which distilled very complicated, voluminous legal decisions and concepts into a series of bullet points with clear, easy-to-follow rules and best practices, designed to be distributed to non-lawyers in many different facets of this business, covered all aspects of operations that could subject a company like this one to liability under the laws examined, including with respect to asset purchase transactions, marketing and consumer onboarding, usage of certain terms of art in advertising, disclosure requirements, fee structures, communications with customers, legal documentation requirements, customer service and support, debt collection practices, arrangements with third parties who act on the company’s behalf, and more.

Miscellaneous

• Last year’s students built upon the Innovation Clinic’s progress in shaping the rules promulgated by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”) pursuant to the Corporate Transparency Act to create a client alert summarizing the final rule, its impact on startups, and what startups need to know in order to comply. When FinCEN issued additional guidance with respect to that final rule and changed portions of the final rule including timelines for compliance, this year’s students updated the alert, then distributed it to current and former clients to notify them of the need to comply. The final bulletin is available here .
• In furtherance of that work, additional Innovation Clinic students this year analyzed the impact of the final rule not just on the Innovation Clinic’s clients but also its impact on the Innovation Clinic, and how the Innovation Clinic should change its practices to ensure compliance and minimize risk to the Innovation Clinic. This also involved putting together a comprehensive filing guide for companies that are ready to file their certificates of incorporation to show them procedurally how to do so and explain the choices they must make during the filing process, so that the Innovation Clinic would not be involved in directing or controlling the filings and thus would not be considered a “company applicant” on any client’s Corporate Transparency Act filings with FinCEN.
• The Innovation Clinic also began producing thought leadership pieces regarding AI, leveraging our distinct and uniquely University of Chicago expertise in structuring early-stage companies and analyzing complex regulatory issues with a law and economics lens to add our voice to those speaking on this important topic. One student wrote about whether non-profits are really the most desirable form of entity for mitigating risks associated with AI development, and another team of students prepared an analysis of the EU’s AI Act, comparing it to the Executive Order on AI from President Biden, and recommended a path forward for an AI regulatory environment in the United States. Both pieces can be found here , with more to come!

Innovation Trek

Thanks to another generous gift from Douglas Clark, ’89, and managing partner of Wilson, Sonsini, Goodrich & Rosati, we were able to operationalize the second Innovation Trek over Spring Break 2024. The Innovation Trek provides University of Chicago Law School students with a rare opportunity to explore the innovation and venture capital ecosystem in its epicenter, Silicon Valley. The program enables participating students to learn from business and legal experts in a variety of different industries and roles within the ecosystem to see how the law and economics principles that students learn about in the classroom play out in the real world, and facilitates meaningful connections between alumni, students, and other speakers who are leaders in their fields. This year, we took twenty-three students (as opposed to twelve during the first Trek) and expanded the offering to include not just Innovation Clinic students but also interested students from our JD/MBA Program and Doctoroff Business Leadership Program. We also enjoyed four jam-packed days in Silicon Valley, expanding the trip from the two and a half days that we spent in the Bay Area during our 2022 Trek.

The substantive sessions of the Trek were varied and impactful, and enabled in no small part thanks to substantial contributions from numerous alumni of the Law School. Students were fortunate to visit Coinbase’s Mountain View headquarters to learn from legal leaders at the company on all things Coinbase, crypto, and in-house, Plug & Play Tech Center’s Sunnyvale location to learn more about its investment thesis and accelerator programming, and Google’s Moonshot Factory, X, where we heard from lawyers at a number of different Alphabet companies about their lives as in-house counsel and the varied roles that in-house lawyers can have. We were also hosted by Wilson, Sonsini, Goodrich & Rosati and Fenwick & West LLP where we held sessions featuring lawyers from those firms, alumni from within and outside of those firms, and non-lawyer industry experts on topics such as artificial intelligence, climate tech and renewables, intellectual property, biotech, investing in Silicon Valley, and growth stage companies, and general advice on career trajectories and strategies. We further held a young alumni roundtable, where our students got to speak with alumni who graduated in the past five years for intimate, candid discussions about life as junior associates. In total, our students heard from more than forty speakers, including over twenty University of Chicago alumni from various divisions.

The Trek didn’t stop with education, though. Throughout the week students also had the opportunity to network with speakers to learn more from them outside the confines of panel presentations and to grow their networks. We had a networking dinner with Kirkland & Ellis, a closing dinner with all Trek participants, and for the first time hosted an event for admitted students, Trek participants, and alumni to come together to share experiences and recruit the next generation of Law School students. Several speakers and students stayed in touch following the Trek, and this resulted not just in meaningful relationships but also in employment for some students who attended.

More information on the purposes of the Trek is available here , the full itinerary is available here , and one student participant’s story describing her reflections on and descriptions of her experience on the Trek is available here .

The Innovation Clinic is grateful to all of its clients for continuing to provide its students with challenging, high-quality legal work, and to the many alumni who engage with us for providing an irreplaceable client pipeline and for sharing their time and energy with our students. Our clients are breaking the mold and bringing innovations to market that will improve the lives of people around the world in numerous ways. We are glad to aid in their success in any way that we can. We look forward to another productive year in 2024-2025!

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Computer games art & concept art personal statement example.

My infatuation with games started when The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker came out on the Gamecube, thereafter it became a steady passion to be a part of the games industry. I am endlessly fascinated with the contrasting experiences you can feel with games, and the people that are willing to dedicate so much time to a new experience.

I have experience using 3D software packages and the Adobe Creative Collection, which is necessary to show technical art skills to explain my ideas. Group work is important to the course as it is a valuable skill needed to work in the industry as well as an understanding person willing to help people who need it. The Computer Games Art course will help further my work experience and develop my portfolio to industry standards.

During my time on Games, Animation and VFX I have learned 3D modelling is very technical and it is not just based around art, especially when it comes to modular asset design for environments. Texturing is similar in this regard as making sure the texture size is divisible by 2 such as 512 or 1024 rendered UV templates. I use a range of texture maps in my college work such as diffuse, specular, normal, and ambient occlusion. My current course has helped me because learning the C# language as an artist can help bridge the gap between designers and developers.

During the course I use software such as 3ds Max, Maya, Mudbox, Photoshop, Substance Painter, Unity, and the Unreal engine. I have explored the 12 principles of animation by Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston to create an aesthetically pleasing piece such as Squash and Stretch, Anticipation, and Pose to Pose. I am also taught technical art skills such as the rule of thirds, volume, and colour theory and how composition affects the viewer.

Being able to draw is vital as an artist to communicate myself pictorially to further my ideas rather than relying purely on verbal communication. I understand the games pipeline from concept to post production as well as how games companies are funded such as publishers or Kickstarter. I enjoy producing concept art for the course and creating art at home while learning the technicalities of the software packages. Having often worked in groups on the course, it has helped me develop leadership and organisational skills to help bring projects along and keep to a tight deadline.

I have taken part in the Global Game Jam with my college and the Game Blast to raise money for charity. I also recently attended the European Gaming Exhibition this year watching the talks and keeping up with what is happening in the industry. I have previous experience in bar work which has helped me in knowing how to calmly deal with difficult people and helping people that are new, whilst also working under pressure for a great deal of time. I also volunteered for St.John's Ambulance which helped me be calm under pressure and I was a school librarian, keeping the area tidy and organising and maintaining the books.

In my spare time I practise playing guitar and ukulele, which is a skill that has taken years for me to learn and I am continuing to improve. I am also a big fan of learning languages such as French, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanish. These take a lot of work and dedication to learn, but nothing can’t be achieved by practising daily and setting yourself new goals. Since I was introduced to technology from a young age I have been keen to understand it and experiment with it such as modifying games to enrich my own experience with them.

In the future I aspire to be a Senior Games Artist for a games company like Bethesda or Coatsink. I am very organised which includes the correct naming conventions for files, while bringing a positive attitude to lessons to help motivate people to do their best work while helping them when they run into errors. I am looking forward to expanding new skills and working with new people as part of a team.

Profile info

There is no profile associated with this personal statement, as the writer has requested to remain anonymous.

Author's Comments

I got into all the unis I applied for but I was mainly focused on Teesside because they had some of the best courses in this area. I would recommend this uni as the lecturers are amazing and have insane equipment that's also 24hrs. For these courses the personal statement doesn't matter too much, they just want to look at your portfolio and they will judge you on that.

Teesside uni - Computer Games Art BA - Concept Art BA

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