About | Statement Awards

STATEMENT AWARDS: WHERE WORDS SHAPE ART

At Statement Awards, we believe that ideas, concepts, and narratives are the true foundation of art. While exhibitions and galleries often emphasize visual expression, we turn our focus to the thoughts behind the art—the words that shape creative intent. An art statement is not just an explanation—it is a manifesto, a philosophy, and a conversation between the creator and the world.

OUR ORIGINS:

FROM CONSULTANCY TO A GLOBAL PLATFORM

Statement Awards began as a statement-writing consultancy for international artists, providing guidance on how to articulate their creative intent with clarity and impact. Through this work, we recognized a deeper need—a space dedicated not to artworks themselves, but to the words that shape them. What began as a consultancy evolved into a vision: a festival and award platform that celebrates the power of art statements as independent forms of expression.

Our founder, Arta Shadman, a PhD in Art History, has extensive experience in art market research, distribution, and international art advisory, working closely with artists, collectors, and institutions. His main field of expertise has been the representation of minorities, particularly in relation to gender, within the art world. Through his work, he has witnessed firsthand how representation, discourse, and artistic narratives shape cultural power structures. He believes that the statement is the most essential and enduring element in the art world—a space where artists define their voices and assert their presence in an industry that often marginalizes certain perspectives.

We are a collective of scholars, artists, and activists who believe that words are just as powerful as images. Our goal is to provide a global stage where the intellectual and conceptual depth of art is recognized, celebrated, and awarded.

OUR MISSION:

THE ENDURING POWER OF THE STATEMENT

Throughout history, art statements have shaped artistic movements, defined cultural shifts, and given voice to radical transformations. From the manifestos of the avant-garde to contemporary artistic discourse, statements have always been a force of change. While styles, mediums, and technologies evolve, the need to articulate artistic intent remains timeless.

At Statement Awards, we see the art statement as the most essential and enduring element of the art world—untouched by passing trends and existing as both a reflection of the present and a guide for the future.

WHY ART STATEMENTS?

In an era where art is increasingly conceptual, the ability to articulate creative intent is as vital as the artwork itself. A strong statement:

Gives depth to artistic expression, allowing ideas to resonate beyond the work.
Challenges conventions by introducing new perspectives and radical thought.
Elevates the value of art, shifting focus from material form to intellectual impact.
Empowers underrepresented voices, creating space for marginalized perspectives in the art world.

Through our curated selection process, statement awards, and mentorship programs, we recognize and amplify the most compelling artistic voices.

OUR VISION

At Statement Awards, we envision a future where art is understood not only by what is seen but by the ideas that shape it. We are transforming the way art is valued, discussed, and experienced, shifting the focus from finished artworks to the intellectual and conceptual depth behind them.

Our mission is to build a global community where artists, scholars, and activists can:

Develop their creative voices with confidence and clarity.
Engage in intellectual discourse that pushes the boundaries of artistic expression.
Challenge outdated norms and reshape cultural narratives through thought-provoking statements.
Foster a culture where words and art coexist, creating a deeper connection between artists and audiences.
Champion diversity and representation, ensuring that marginalized voices in art receive the recognition they deserve.

Through mentorship programs, statement awards, and professional development services, we aim to create a space where artistic thought is nurtured, respected, and given the platform it deserves. Whether you are an emerging artist, an established creator, or a scholar exploring the intersections of art and theory, Statement Awards is your space to articulate, refine, and share your vision with the world.