Comments on: Are You Sending Wimpy Cover Letters?

By: What To Include In An Art Exhibition Proposal - Art Biz Success

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 17:42:38 +0000

[…] your cover letter with the correct name and spelling of the manager, exhibitions director, or curator. It’s much […]

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By: Fred Lunger

Wed, 11 Jul 2012 22:47:02 +0000

Interesting read. As more and more of the public art requests move online to sites like Cafe, it become extremely important that you are concise and to the point, telling the reviewers why you are interested and what you can offer. One of my last submission asked the letter of interest be 1000 characters. Not words but characters or each key stroke. As an example, this posting is 403 characters. 🙂

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By: Amanda Christine

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 21:15:59 +0000

I just sent off a letter with a submission before I read this! agh! definitely bookmarking for next time!

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By: Debby Williams

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 23:34:02 +0000

In reply to reveille Kennedy.

Hello Reveille, I wouldn’t endorse putting your photo on a cover letter. You want the folks who are reading it to concentrate on your words. Also, think about having your letter look clean and professional. If your artwork is part of the design of your letterhead and it works as such, then that would be a different issue. But remember, they will be looking at images of your work in your submittal.

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By: reveille Kennedy

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 19:23:36 +0000

In reply to Terri Garcia.

Hi Debby and Alyson,
Is it ever advisable to put a photo of yourself or your artwork on a cover letter? Since it was not mentioned, I am guessing that it is not a good idea.
Thanks, Reveille

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By: Terri Garcia

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 18:42:19 +0000

This is a valuable article on writing an effective cover letter. I never realized that a cover letter should be more than just simple facts and an introduction. I always relied on the resume to do the work. My eyes have been opened! I wish I had read this eight years ago when I tried for my dream job. Thank you!

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By: David Phelps

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 16:23:14 +0000

Debby,
These are great suggestions. I’m bookmarking this entry!
Thanks,
David

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By: Julia Kirt

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 15:09:49 +0000

Agreed Debby.
Letters give you the opportunity to increase your overall presentation, but frequently add a lot of questions. We have so little to go on when reviewing applications, every word is important!

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By: Arthur

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 15:09:19 +0000

Bravo! And it’s so nice to see a bulleted list done right: no punctuation at the end of each phrase (who needs it?), and no pretending that each line is an alternative ending to a sentence fragment that’s hanging out somewhere up above.
The bulleted layout tells readers that they have their choice of a few independent little nuggets — certainly not a list that needs to be read in order — and that each nugget fits the description set out in the introductory sentence.
Sorry for the soapbox, but so many people (professionals and amateurs alike) put their energy into making a bulleted list wearisome to read rather than just a quick list of parallel possibilities. Anyone reading your cover letter (other than our mother) is looking for a reason to put the letter down and get on with the next one — and you don’t want to give them that excuse.

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By: Debby Williams

Mon, 09 Jul 2012 15:07:12 +0000

In reply to K. Henderson.

Good morning! Yes, you are exactly right. If they specifically say to not include additional information, then by all means, don’t. Following the instructions is crucial. However, there are many times when a cover letter is requested especially for residencies, public art commissions, and grant applications. When it is permitted or requested, take advantage of the opportunity.
And congratulations on being juried into that show!

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