An artist’s CV (curriculum vitae) is one of the most useful tools for understanding their career. It shows where the artist has exhibited, who supports them, and how their recognition has developed over time. Learning how to read a CV helps collectors separate real progress from surface-level activity.
What an Artist’s CV Is (and Isn’t)
An artist’s CV is:
- a record of professional activity,
- a summary of recognition and visibility,
- a timeline of career development.
It is not:
- a measure of talent,
- a guarantee of future value,
- something to judge by length alone.
Quality matters more than quantity.
Common Sections in an Artist’s CV
Most artist CVs include the following sections:
Exhibitions
This is usually the most important section.
- Solo exhibitions carry more weight than group shows
- Museum or institutional exhibitions are especially important
- International exhibitions suggest broader relevance
Look for a clear progression in scale and prestige.
Gallery Representation
Some CVs list current and past galleries.
- Stable representation by respected galleries is a positive sign
- Frequent changes in representation may indicate instability
- Representation quality matters more than location alone
Collections
This section lists institutions or collectors who own the artist’s work.
- Museum collections add strong credibility
- Repeated institutional acquisitions are especially meaningful
- Well-known private collections can also support demand
Publications and Press
This shows how the artist’s work has been discussed.
- Reviews in respected publications matter most
- Exhibition catalogues indicate institutional backing
- Academic or curatorial texts add long-term relevance
Self-published materials carry less weight.
Awards, Grants, and Residencies
These indicate external recognition.
- Competitive grants and fellowships are positive signals
- Residencies at respected institutions show professional trust
- Repeated support is stronger than one-time awards
Education
Education provides context but is rarely decisive.
- Prestigious art schools can help early careers
- Education matters less as careers mature
- Professional outcomes outweigh formal training
How to Spot Strength and Weakness
Positive signs
- Consistent activity over time
- Increasing exhibition quality
- Institutional recognition
- Stable gallery support
Warning signs
- Long gaps in activity
- Many low-profile group shows only
- No institutional presence after many years
- Unclear or unstable representation